FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS

FDC Recognized Nationally for Compliance with PREA and ACA Standards

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. –The Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) is proud to announce the honor of receiving the distinguished Lucy Webb Hayes Award at the American Correctional Association’s (ACA) 152nd Congress of Correction. Florida is one of only eight state correctional systems nationally to receive the award for achieving full Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) compliance at every correctional institution, and ACA accreditation agency wide.

“I am proud to accept this honor, on behalf of the 24,000 staff in our agency who work tirelessly to ensure our operations meet and exceed national corrections standards. For every facility to achieve both ACA and PREA compliance is a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to the agency’s commitment to being a national leader in corrections,” said Secretary Ricky Dixon. “The Florida Department of Corrections will continue to strive for excellence and remains dedicated to providing a safe and secure working environment for our staff, to protect our communities, and to enhance the quality of life for those in our care.”

PREA compliance includes forty-three standards defining three clear goals, to prevent, detect and respond to sexual abuse. FDC maintains a zero-tolerance policy for all forms of sexual abuse, sexual battery and sexual harassment.

During the 152nd Congress of Correction, nine correctional institutions received their reaccreditation from the ACA. Accreditation requires compliance to nationally recognized performance-based standards and expected practices to address services, programs, and operations essential to effective correctional management.

FDC takes great pride in accepting the prestigious Lucy Webb Hayes Award and joining other distinguished agencies that have dedicated themselves to ensuring the integrity of the corrections profession.

Click here to find out more about the Lucy Webb Hayes Award.