What are the reporting options for a victim of sexual assault in the Army?

Victims of sexual assault in the Army have the option to choose between restricted and unrestricted reporting. This system is designed to empower victims by allowing them to control how their incident is handled.

Restricted reporting is intended for victims who want to receive medical treatment and counseling without initiating an official investigation. This can help victims seek the support they need while maintaining privacy and confidentiality, as the incident will not be reported to law enforcement unless the victim later opts for unrestricted reporting.

Unrestricted reporting, on the other hand, allows the victim to report the incident to law enforcement and initiate a formal investigation. This route is meant for those who wish to hold the perpetrator accountable and pursue legal action, as it triggers a full investigation into the assault.

The other options do not accurately reflect the established reporting mechanisms in place within the Army for sexual assault victims. The terms used in those choices, such as anonymous and public reporting, or formal and informal reporting, do not align with the Army's specific approach to addressing sexual assault incidents. Understanding the distinction between restricted and unrestricted reporting is crucial for victims to make informed decisions about their support and legal options.