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Newport News Secure Juvenile Detention Center — final PREA audit, August 2026

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The PREA Coordinator confirmed that all allegations of sexual abuse and sexual harassment are referred to the Newport News Police Department (NNPD) Special Victims Unit for criminal investigation, while NNJDC staff are responsible for administrative investigative functions. The auditor reviewed the MOU with NNPD, which outlines investigative responsibilities and confirms that criminal investigations are conducted by law enforcement.   During interviews, members of the Incident Review Team demonstrated knowledge of investigative procedures, including how to respond to allegations, conduct victim and witness interviews, preserve evidence, and determine whether cases meet the threshold for administrative findings or referral to law enforcement. Staff clearly articulated that NNPD is responsible for criminal investigations and evidence collection, while NNJDC staff secure and preserve the scene until law enforcement assumes control.   The auditor reviewed personnel training files and verified that members of the Incident Review Team completed NIC-certified training titled PREA: Investigating Sexual Abuse in a Confinement Setting, and/or The Moss Group training titled: PREA Juvenile Specilized Investigations Training, as documented through certificates of completion. While the auditor did not independently verify the full course content, the NIC is a U.S. Department of Justice agency recognized nationally for providing corrections training, including PREA-related instruction and technical assistance. The NIC website confirms its long-standing role in supporting PREA implementation through training, technical assistance, and the PREA Resource Center and Learning Center. The Moss Group is a justice consulting firm with a focus on creating cultures of safety. NNJDC investigators attended a one-day virtual program is designed to meet the PREA specialized investigations training requirements and build essential skills through scenario-based learning. Based on review of training documentation and staff interviews, the auditor determined that the investigative staff demonstrated adequate knowledge and competence in conducting administrative investigations consistent with PREA standards.   Compliance Determination Based on a review of facility policy, training records, NIC documentation, the MOU with NNPD, and interviews with the PREA Coordinator and Incident Review Team members, the auditor determined that NNJDC ensures that staff responsible for conducting sexual abuse and sexual harassment investigations receive appropriate specialized training.   Accordingly, the auditor finds that NNJDC meets the requirements of Standard
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