In accordance with the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) of 2003, the Steele County Detention Center has a policy of zero tolerance with regard to sexual abuse and sexual harassment in this facility and will take appropriate affirmative measures to protect all inmates of sexual abuse and sexual harassment and to promptly and thoroughly investigate all allegations of sexual abuse and sexual harassment.
The Steele County Sheriff’s Office will investigate any criminal allegations and supports the prosecution of persons who commit acts of sexual misconduct and sexual assault in its facility. The Steele County Detention Center has developed uniform guidelines and procedures to reduce the risk of in-custody sexual assaults and sexual misconduct.
You can learn more about PREA at the National Prison Rape Elimination Commission website.
Any person may report an allegation on behalf of any inmate in the Steele County Detention Center through the following means:
- Contacting Jail Administration at 507-446-7000. You can also directly report by E-Mailing allegations to anthony.buttera@steelecountymn.gov
- Calling the Crisis Resource Center of Owatonna at 507-446-1202
- Contacting Law Enforcement at 507-444-3800.
- Contacting the Steele County Attorney's office at 507-444-7780
In accordance with the Prison Rape Elimination Act, the Steele County Detention Center is required to undergo a PREA audit every 3 years. We are required to post a copy of the final report once the audit is completed.