Sexual assault is an issue the Armed Forces takes very seriously. Given the gravity of this matter, service members must understand their options when reporting such incidents. Learn about the two main ways to report sexual assault in the military and how a military defense attorney can defend service members accused of sexual assault.
Overview of Sexual Assault Reporting in the Military
The Department of Defense (DoD) has implemented two reporting procedures for victims of sexual assault: Restricted and Unrestricted. These options were created to give victims control over the disclosure of their assault, thus encouraging more individuals to come forward to receive support and services.
Restricted Reporting: Confidential Support
Restricted reporting is designed to maintain the confidentiality of the sexual assault incident while granting victims access to medical care, counseling, and victim advocacy services. This is a valuable reporting method for victims who may be unsure about the next steps or simply wish to keep the incident private while navigating the healing process.
A victim who opts for restricted reporting discloses the details of their assault directly to a Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC), Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Victim Advocate (SAPR VA), or healthcare personnel. The professional who responds to the victim’s claim offers healthcare treatment and a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE). They then explain the resources available through the DD Form 2910, where the victim officially elects restricted reporting.
Notably, restricted reporting does not trigger an official investigation. The DoD’s regulations ensure the strict confidentiality of a restricted report, ensuring that the details are not disclosed to law enforcement or command authorities without the victim’s explicit consent. The command is notified that an alleged sexual assault occurred but doesn’t receive the victim’s name or personally identifying information.
However, it’s important to note the limitations of restricted reporting. First, it may not be available in all cases. Then, while it affords confidentiality and access to support services, it doesn’t allow an official investigation to occur. If a victim changes their mind about this, they can convert a restricted report to an unrestricted report at any time.
Unrestricted Reporting: Triggering an Official Investigation
Unrestricted reporting is intended for victims who wish to formally charge their alleged assailants with sexual assault. This option triggers an official investigation while providing victims access to medical care, counseling, and advocacy services.
To initiate the unrestricted reporting process, a victim can disclose the details of the assault to their chain of command or law enforcement. Likewise, they may complete the DD Form 2910 and elect unrestricted reporting. A victim who previously chose the restricted reporting option can request their SARC, SAPR VA, or healthcare provider to convert the report to unrestricted. This initiates a formal process involving both an investigative and judicial component.
Opting for unrestricted reporting makes the assault details a matter of official record. The victim’s command and law enforcement are notified, and an investigation begins. Victims often choose this option if they want to hold the offender accountable or believe the offender poses a threat to themselves or others.
Unrestricted reporting inherently involves a loss of confidentiality. As the case proceeds, the details may become known to others in the victim’s unit, a significant concern for some service members. Also, in most cases, a victim may not change from an unrestricted to a restricted report. Therefore, the decision should be made with full awareness of the potential implications.
Changes to Reporting Rules
In recent years, the military has made several important changes to sexual assault reporting rules. For example, the Navy updated its Sexual Assault Prevention and Response policy in 2022 to allow victims to file restricted reports even if they’ve already disclosed the assault to their command or personnel in their chain of command.
Note that this option is only available if the victim has not reported the incident to law enforcement or investigative organizations. The victim must also not have elected an unrestricted report by signing a DD Form 2910 in the presence of a SARC or SAPR VA. Commands must explain these reporting requirements and ensure victims understand their eligibility to file a restricted or unrestricted report.
The Role of a Defense Attorney in Sexual Assault Cases
In both restricted and unrestricted reporting, the importance of a skilled attorney cannot be overstated. Whether for ensuring the victim’s rights or representing the accused, legal guidance is crucial in navigating the complexities of these cases.
If you have been accused of sexual assault, you have the right to legal representation regardless of the reporting method used. Your attorney’s job is to protect your rights, ensure fair treatment under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), and present a robust defense on your behalf.
Defend Yourself Against Sexual Assault Allegations
When the stakes are high, you need the experiencedise of Joseph L. Jordan, Attorney at Law. Mr. Jordan understands the potentially devastating effects of a sexual assault charge on your career, personal life, and future prospects. That’s why our team meticulously scrutinizes every piece of evidence, challenges inconsistencies, and ensures the investigation follows all necessary procedures.
With his extensive experience, proven track record, and unwavering dedication, Mr. Jordan is a formidable ally to have in your corner. Call us toll-free today at 800-580-8034 or 254-221-6411 to speak directly with Mr. Jordan about building your defense.
