What reporting options are available for victims of sexual assault in the Army?

Victims of sexual assault in the Army have the option of either restricted reporting or unrestricted reporting. Restricted reporting allows a victim to report an assault confidentially to specific individuals, such as a victim advocate or healthcare provider, without initiating an official investigation or notifying law enforcement. This option provides privacy and support for the victim, allowing them to access resources without the added pressure of an immediate formal investigation.

Unrestricted reporting, on the other hand, involves informing law enforcement and initiating an official investigation into the assault. This reporting option enables the victim to seek accountability and support while possibly leading to legal action against the perpetrator.

The distinction between these two reporting options is critical as it enables victims to choose the level of involvement they wish to have with the reporting process, balancing their need for privacy with their desire for justice and accountability. Other options, such as anonymous or confidential reporting, do not accurately reflect the established framework within the Army’s policies for handling sexual assault cases.