Reporting Options

Sexual Assault is the most under reported crime in our society and in the military. While the Department of Defense prefers complete reporting of sexual assaults to activate both victims’ services and law enforcement actions, it recognizes that some victims desire only medical and support services and no command or law enforcement involvement. The Department believes its first priority is for victims to be protected, treated with dignity and respect, and to receive the medical treatment, care and counseling that they deserve. Under DoD’s Confidentiality Policy, military victims of sexual assault have two reporting options- Restricted reporting and Unrestricted reporting. Military retirees, dependents, and other civilian victims currently may use only Unrestricted reporting.

Understanding DoD’s Confidentiality Policy

DoD’s Confidentiality policy permits victims of sexual assault to report the crime to specified individuals who can then ensure the victim receives medical care, treatment and counseling without notifying command or law enforcement officials. Covered individuals include the Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC); Victim Advocates (VA); healthcare personnel; and chaplains. For purposes of public safety and command responsibility, the SARC will notify the installation commander that an assault has occurred and provide details that will not identify the victim. See the Department of Defense Directive 6495.01, Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program for complete details.

This policy provides victims some personal space and time, and increased control over the release and management of their personal information. This hopefully empowers them to seek relevant information and support to make more informed decisions about participating in the criminal investigation. Jurisdictions with similar policies have found that confidentiality actually leads to increased reporting rates. Even if the victim chooses not to pursue an official investigation, this additional reporting avenue gives commanders a clearer picture of the sexual violence within their command, and enhances a commander’s ability to provide an environment which is safe and contributes to the well-being and mission-readiness of all of its members.

PDF Download: Sample Sexual Assault Response Flow Chart