1. Mandatory Referral

Any allegation of sexual abuse or sexual harassment that may constitute a criminal act shall be immediately referred to the appropriate law enforcement agency or other authority with legal jurisdiction to conduct criminal investigations.

· Allegations may be reported verbally, in writing, anonymously, or through third parties.

· All staff are mandatory reporters and must immediately notify their supervisor or designated PREA Coordinator.

2. Reporting Channels

Allegations may be reported through any of the following means:

· Direct report to any VOACC staff member or supervisor

· Report to the VOACC PREA Coordinator

· Written or anonymous complaint

Third-party report

3. Separation of Administrative and Criminal Investigations

· VOACC may conduct an internal administrative review only after referral to law enforcement, when appropriate.

· Internal fact-finding shall not interfere with any criminal investigation.

· VOACC will defer to law enforcement on evidence preservation and investigative actions.

4. Cooperation with Investigators

VOACC shall:

· Provide full cooperation with law enforcement and investigative agencies

· Ensure access to relevant records, staff, and locations as permitted by law

· Maintain confidentiality to the extent legally allowable

5. No Retaliation

VOACC strictly prohibits retaliation against any individual who reports sexual abuse or sexual harassment or who participates in an investigation.

6. Documentation

· All allegations and referrals shall be documented.

· Records shall be maintained in a secure and confidential manner.

· Documentation shall include the date, time, nature of the allegation, and referral action taken.

Website Publication

This policy shall be made publicly available on the VOACC website to ensure transparency and compliance with PREA requirements.

Related Standards

· PREA Standard §115.222 – Policies to Ensure Referrals of Allegations for Investigations

· PREA Standard §115.261 – Staff and Agency Reporting Duties