Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA)
Complaints of Sexual Abuse/Harassment
Davidson County Sheriff’s Office personnel conduct administrative investigations into allegations of sexual abuse/harassment of inmates. Complaints of sexual abuse (inappropriate touching and penetration) are also referred to the Metro Nashville Police Department for possible criminal investigation. Decisions about potential criminal prosecution are made by the Police Department and the Office of the District Attorney.
If you wish to file a third-party complaint of sexual abuse/harassment on behalf of an inmate, you may do so by filling out the PREA Third-Party Complaint Form. You may also do so via email, in person, by telephone, anonymously, or by mail. Use the Contact Us link on this website for address and other contact information. If you wish to make the complaint via telephone, please ask to be connected to the appropriate facility lieutenant for further assistance.
We will investigate all complaints to the best of our ability. Routine investigations are generally completed within 30 days, however, based on extenuating circumstances, an investigation may take longer. You will be notified of the results of the investigation.
Policy
Our office strives to protect inmates from sexual abuse / harassment and provides guidelines for inmates and staff to ensure such incidents are reported, investigated, and addressed. This policy complies with the provisions of the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA).
We have a zero-tolerance policy toward sexual abuse/harassment. (PREA 115.11a)
Update: A recent Department of Justice audit has found the DCSO’s PREA program to be compliant with federal standards.