Army Community Service

Sexual assault is intentional sexual contact, characterized by use of force, physical threat or abuse of authority or when the victim does not or cannot consent. It is a crime that inflicts incalculable harm on victims and their families. It tears at the fabric of civilian and military communities and it destroys trust among individuals and faith in our institutions. It is also the most under-reported crime in our society and in the military.

Under Department of Defense instructions, the Army and other military services implemented the SAPRP to combat the crime of sexual assault. The goals of the SAPRP are to:

• Educate and train Soldiers to prevent sexual assault and to respond appropriately when it occurs.
• Ensure victims/survivors receive sensitive, confidential and comprehensive care.
• Create a climate that encourages reporting without fear.
• Ensure that incidents of sexual assault are investigated and offenders are held accountable.

The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program (SAPRP) is a victim-focused program designed to ensure a dedicated network of support for victims and to empower victims. The Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) serves as the single point of contact to coordinate sexual assault victim care. Installation and Unit Victim Advocates provide a 24/7 response, helping victims navigate the system, understand options and access resources and services.

Under the SAPRP, service members who become victims of sexual assault have two reporting options:

1. Restricted Reporting: Law enforcement is not informed nor does the command structure become involved, thus eliminating the opportunity for disciplinary or protective action. Restricted reporting allows the victim to disclose details of the assault on a confidential basis only to specified individuals:

• Army Community Service Victim Advocate DSN 431-3342, Commercial 07031-15-3342
• Unit Victim Advocates
• SARC DSN 431-3361, Commercial 07031-15-3361
• Chaplain DSN 430-5000, Commercial 0711-680-5000
• Healthcare providers including Social Work Service DSN 431-2676, Commercial 07031-15-2676

2. Unrestricted Reporting:

• Allows the victim to receive medical treatment, including a forensic examination, counseling, and to inform the appropriate legal/command authority.
• The advantage of the unrestricted reporting option is that notification of law enforcement and the command structure allows actions to be taken to protect the victim. In addition to the personnel listed under restricted reporting, these personnel can take unrestricted reports:

For more information about the SAPRP, go to www.sexualassault.army.mil