How to Report Sexual Abuse or Assault at Alachua County Jail

The Alachua County Sheriff's Office has a zero-tolerance policy for inmate sexual battery and abuse. If something happens, don't wait or try to handle it quietly. Filing a report is what triggers the jail to step in and take action.

1. Call the jail’s reporting line - Inmates can report a sexual assault by calling 491-4539 toll-free from any cell area.

1. Leave an identifying message - When leaving a message, clearly state and SPELL your last name so staff can match the report to the right person.

Once a report is filed, staff will immediately separate the victim from the assailant. That quick protective response is the first priority.

Staff will also refer the victim for a medical exam. This referral is standard procedure following any reported sexual assault.

The jail handbook defines "staff-on-inmate sexual abuse/assault" as any staff member engaging in - or attempting - a sexual act with an inmate. It also covers intentionally touching an inmate's genitalia, anus, groin, breast, inner thigh, or buttocks when the intent is to abuse, humiliate, harass, degrade, arouse, or gratify sexual desire.

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• ✓ Encourage your loved one to report sexual misconduct immediately - action can’t be taken until it’s reported.
• ✓ Don’t rely on someone else (another inmate, a friend on the outside, or “word getting around”) to make the report.
• ✓ Write down what your loved one tells you (dates, times, names, and what happened) so you can help them keep their account consistent.
• ✓ Focus on support and safety: help them follow the jail’s reporting instructions and keep reporting pressure off their shoulders.
• ✓ Remind them the jail states it has zero tolerance for inmate sexual battery/abuse - reporting is a protected, expected step.