Who is covered under PREA in a correctional setting?

• A. Inmates/detainees, staff, contractors, volunteers, interns, and anyone under the facility's authority.
• B. Only inmates.
• C. Only staff.
• D. Only volunteers.

Answer: (A)

The main concept is that PREA protection in a correctional setting covers everyone under the facility’s authority, not just one group. In addition to inmates and detainees, the law applies to staff, contractors, volunteers, interns, and any other person who is under the facility’s control or who interacts with inmates within the facility. This broad scope ensures that prevention, reporting, and responses to sexual abuse and harassment address all people who could be affected or involved.

That’s why the option including inmates/detainees, staff, contractors, volunteers, interns, and anyone under the facility’s authority is the best answer. It reflects PREA’s purpose of eliminating sexual abuse by applying protections and responsibilities across all individuals connected to the facility. Choosing only one group—such as only inmates, only staff, or only volunteers—omits other individuals who are also part of the facility’s environment and may be at risk, which would leave gaps in protection and accountability.