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Policy 115.361 requires all staff to immediately report any knowledge, suspicion, or
information regarding sexual abuse, sexual harassment, retaliation for reporting, or
staff neglect or misconduct that may contribute to such incidents. Staff are also
required to maintain confidentiality by sharing information only with individuals who
have a legitimate need to know.
All staff interviewed demonstrated a clear understanding of their mandated
reporting obligations. Staff consistently stated they would immediately report any
suspected or known incidents of sexual abuse or harassment to supervisors and
appropriate agency officials, and that they understood their duty to document and
escalate such reports without delay. Training records confirmed that 100% of staff
have received instruction on mandatory reporting requirements, including child
abuse and neglect reporting laws.
Medical and mental health practitioners confirmed that they are also mandated
reporters under facility policy and applicable law. They stated that they inform
residents at the initiation of services of the limits of confidentiality and their duty to
report any disclosures of abuse. Training documentation in personnel files confirmed
completion of mandatory reporting training for medical and mental health staff.
Policy further requires the facility Director or designee to notify appropriate external
entities upon receiving an allegation of sexual abuse, including the Newport News
Police Department (NNPD), Child Protective Services (CPS), and the resident’s
parent or legal guardian, unless legally restricted. If the resident is under court or
child welfare supervision, notifications are made to the appropriate caseworker or
legal representative. The PREA Coordinator and Director confirmed that these
notification procedures are followed in practice. The auditor was able to verify
notifications through review of case files which contained a notification checklist for
each investigation.
The facility also ensures that all allegations, including those received through third-
party or anonymous reports, are forwarded to designated investigators for
appropriate administrative review. The PREA Coordinator serves as the primary
administrative investigator, supported by the Director, Deputy Director, supervisors,
and medical/mental health staff as needed. Staff interviews confirmed awareness of
the investigative structure and reporting chain, and all interviewed staff were able
to identify the PREA Coordinator as a key point of contact for investigations.
Compliance Determination
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