Improving state's compliance with PREA requirements

While cameras are not a replacement for staff supervision, they do serve some critical functions at OYA facilities in support of meeting PREA Standards. Cameras are a deterrent for unsafe behavior including Sex Abuse and Sexual Harassment. They mitigate blind spots which supports staff in supervising youth. OYA Professional Standards office and the PREA Coordinator use camera review as part of evidence collection and for reviewing staff response to PREA incidents. Juvenile facility standards require OYA agencies to implement staffing plans that include (where applicable) video monitoring, to protect residents against sexual abuse (28 C.F.R. § 115.313(a)). OYA staffing plans across all facilities include the use of video monitoring for this purpose. OYA is requesting to spend these funds to replace and add cameras to multiple facilities. OYA anticipates purchasing and installing 24 cameras at an average cost of 889.04 per camera. The camera styles to be purchased includes fixed directional, corner mounted camaras, bullet cameras, and wedge cameras.