The Prison Rape Elimination Act of 2003 is a federal law established to prevent and eliminate sexual assault and sexual harassment for those housed in correctional settings. This law applies to all federal and state prisons, jails, lockups, juvenile facilities, private detention facilities, and community correctional settings.

Zero Tolerance

The Mason County Jail (MCJ) is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for staff and inmates. The MCJ has a zero tolerance policy toward sexual assault, sexual abuse or misconduct and/or sexual harassment of inmates by other inmates or staff.

All allegations of sexual misconduct will be fully investigated. These incidents will also be referred to and investigated by local law enforcement when applicable. Allegations will be treated with discretion and confidentiality, to the extent permitted by law.

Reporting Sexual Misconduct

If you or someone you know has information regarding an inmate being the victim of sexual abuse or sexual harassment while under MCJ custody, please call:
800-586-9431

You do not need to provide your name, but it is critical you provide as many details as possible, including:

• Names and locations of persons involved, as well as any witnesses.
• Nature of the incident including approximate date and time.
• Your contact phone number in case more information is needed (optional).

MCJ inmates

All individuals being booked into the facility receive information regarding the MCJ zero tolerance policy. Inmates can report any form of sexual misconduct by contacting 800-586-9431 from the facility phones. Inmates can also report by sending a request through the electronic kiosk, telling a trusted staff member, asking a family member or friend to call the hotline, sending a letter to the jail, or by contacting the Human Response Network.