The U.S. Department of Justice has launched an investigation into the conditions at two California prisons: the Central California Women’s Facility in Chowchilla and the California Institution for Women in Chino.

The probe will assess whether the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has sufficiently protected incarcerated women from sexual abuse by prison staff.

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The decision to investigate follows a review of public information and stakeholder input, which revealed serious concerns to the Justice Department.

“No woman incarcerated in a jail or prison should be subjected to sexual abuse by prison staff who are constitutionally bound to protect them,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke.

Women have filed hundreds of lawsuits in the past two years alleging sexual abuse by officers at the Central California Women’s Facility, with claims ranging from groping and genital rubbing to forcible rape.

This week, a state court trial will begin involving allegations that a former officer at the facility committed widespread sexual assaults.

The Chowchilla prison is the second largest female correctional facility in the U.S. and houses California’s death row for women.

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21 Women Sue Chino Prison

Additionally, a civil lawsuit has been filed on behalf of 21 women at the California Institution for Women, alleging offenses such as forcible rape, groping, and oral copulation from 2014 to 2020. The lawsuit also cites threats of violence and abuse.

Reports indicate that correctional staff at both facilities sought sexual favors in exchange for contraband and privileges. The officers implicated include those responsible for handling sexual abuse complaints.

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In March, a state-formed working group, including advocacy groups, issued a report to the California Legislature. The report highlighted persistent issues in addressing staff sexual abuse, including unsafe reporting processes and a lack of accountability.

Read the full announcement at the U.S. Department of Justice.