If you’ve experienced a sexual assault, you have the right to choose how to report it. SAPR victim advocates (VAs) and sexual assault response coordinators (SARCs) stand ready to answer your questions, explain your options, and support you no matter which reporting path you take.
Knowing Your Options
If you're active duty or an adult dependent (18+), you have two main choices: Unrestricted Reporting or Restricted Reporting.
Unrestricted Reporting
Choosing Unrestricted Reporting means you report the assault without requesting confidentiality. This option gives access to:
- SAPR advocacy (support, referrals, accompaniment)
- Medical and mental health care
- Victims' Legal Counsel
- Law enforcement notification/investigation
- Command notification/support
- Military protective order
- Expedited transfer eligibility
Only personnel with a need to know will receive information about the case.
Restricted Reporting
If you want to keep your report confidential, choose Restricted Reporting. This lets you get help without automatically starting a law enforcement investigation or telling your command. You still get:
- SAPR advocacy services
- Medical and counseling care
- Legal advice from a Victims' Legal Counsel
The command will not receive any identifying information about you or the alleged offender.
Expanded Eligibility for Restricted Reporting
Even if you've already talked about the assault, you might still be able to file a Restricted Report if:
- You told your commander or someone in your chain of command.
- A third party (someone else) initiated an investigation.
- You are reporting a different sexual assault.
Important: If you've already filed an Unrestricted Report or told law enforcement about the assault, you can't file a Restricted Report.
You Can Change Your Mind: You can switch from Restricted Reporting to Unrestricted Reporting at any time. But once you choose Unrestricted Reporting, you can't go back.
Who Can You Talk To?
- Unrestricted Reporting: You can disclose to: SAPR VA, SARC, law enforcement, healthcare personnel, chaplain, lawyer, or your chain of command.
- Restricted Reporting: You can only disclose to these people: SAPR VA, SARC, chaplain, or Victim’s Legal Counsel.
- Important Note: In some places, like California, healthcare workers are required to report sexual assaults to law enforcement, even if you want a Restricted Report.
You're in Control. We're here to support you every step of the way. Contact your local SARC or SAPR VA for help or more information. Don't hesitate. Your well-being is what matters.