Breaking the Code of Silence

Critical issues related to staff sexual misconduct with offenders are discussed. Sections of this handbook are: introduction; the need to talk about this now; what staff sexual misconduct entails; consequences of staff sexual misconduct; how correctional environments enable sexual misconduct; victimization; communication, gender, and abuse histories; tools for defining and identifying inappropriate relationships with offenders; what happens when an allegation of staff sexual misconduct is made; what are your rights during a staff sexual misconduct investigation; the legal consequences; prevention; and conclusion. Also included is a copy of the "50 State Survey of Criminal Laws Prohibiting the Sexual Abuse of Individuals Under Correctional Supervision."