Frankfort, Ky. (June 14, 2023) – The Western Kentucky Correctional Complex (WKCC) in Fredonia passed its recent Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) audit. Signed into law Sept. 4, 2003, PREA is intended to address the detection, prevention, reduction, and prosecution of sexual abuse and harassment in correctional facilities throughout the country.
The audit was conducted by PREA auditor Lori Fadorick, contracted by the American Correctional Association.
“I found the staff to be dedicated to providing a well-run and safe environment for the inmate population,” said Fadorick. “With WKCC’s unique mission and circumstances of being the only co-ed facility, the staff are required to be diligent in their efforts to ensure all PREA-related policies and procedures are met. Inmate interviews made it clear that the staff are true professionals.”
“PREA compliance is the product of a daily, continuous, and ongoing commitment to offender safety,” said Deputy Commissioner Randy White. “This successful audit highlights that commitment and to the professionalism of the staff at WKCC. I am very proud of their accomplishment.”
Agency PREA Coordinator Pamela Clayton emphasized that PREA compliance is an ongoing process and not easily maintained. “It requires effort from everyone at the facility,” said Clayton. “It is clear from this audit that the WKCC staff place a great deal of emphasis on the safety of the offenders in their care.”
“This accomplishment is the result of tremendous teamwork on a daily basis, not just during audit time,” said Warden Bobbi Butts. “I couldn’t be prouder of the staff and their hard work each day to ensure the safety of our population. I’m honored to have the privilege to work alongside such wonderful professionals each day.”
PREA audits consist of 45 national standards that ensure compliance with all facets of this federal legislation. The last PREA audit conducted at WKCC was in 2021, which also resulted in a passing score.
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