A Comparison of Two Prison Rape Elimination Act Screening Tools

• In Event: Issues Related to Victimization in Correctional Settings

Abstract

Federal law requires all correctional facilities in the United States to screen incarcerated persons for risk of sexual violence victimization and perpetration. However, since the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) standards were published in 2012, very little research has been completed to test the accuracy of PREA screening instruments. Using data from more than 17,000 admissions, the present study compares the predictive validity of two different PREA screening instruments: one that relies exclusively on objective criteria and one that relies on a mix of subjective and objective criteria. Additional criteria drawn from official records are also considered, as well as the validity of the tools between male and female incarcerated persons. This research underscores the need for more evaluations of PREA screening tools across the United States.

Authors

• Valerie A. Clark, Minnesota Department of Corrections

• Susan McNeeley, Minnesota Department of Corrections

• Grant Duwe, Minnesota Department of Corrections