There are two reporting options:
Unrestricted Reporting
This option is recommended for victims of sexual assault who desire an official investigation and command notification in addition to healthcare, victim advocacy and legal services. When selecting Unrestricted Reporting, you should use current reporting channels, e.g.:
- Law Enforcement/MCIO (will initiate an investigation and start a “report of investigation”)
- Commander (who will then immediately contact the MCIO to start a “report of investigation”)
- Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) (who will fill out a report with the “DD Form 2910” where the victim elects a reporting option)
- SAPR Victim Advocate (SAPR VA) (who will fill out a report with the “DD Form 2910”)
- Health care personnel (who will then immediately contact the SARC to fill out the “DD Form 2910”)
Upon notification of a reported sexual assault, the SARC will immediately assign a SAPR VA and inform the victim of their right to speak to a Special Victims' Counsel / Victims' Legal Counsel (SVC / VLC). At the victim's discretion or request, the healthcare personnel shall conduct a sexual assault forensic examination (SAFE), which may include the collection of evidence. Details regarding the incident will be limited to only those personnel who have a legitimate need to know.
Restricted Reporting
Understanding DoD's Restricted (Confidential) Reporting Policy
DoD's Restricted (Confidential) Reporting Policy permits adult victims of sexual assault to report the crime to specified individuals (SARC, SAPR VA, or healthcare personnel) who can then ensure the victim receives healthcare (medical and mental health), advocacy services (from a SARC or SAPR VA), and legal advice (from a Special Victims' Counsel) without notifying command or law enforcement officials. For purposes of public safety and command responsibility, the SARC will notify the installation commander that “an assault” has occurred and provide very limited details that do NOT include the identity of the victim. See the Department of Defense Directive 6495.01, Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Program for complete details.
This policy provides victims some personal space and time and increased control over the release and management of their personal information. This is intended to empower them to seek relevant information and support to make more informed decisions about participating in the criminal investigation. Jurisdictions with similar policies have found that confidentiality actually leads to increased reporting rates. Even if the victim chooses not to pursue an official investigation, the commander does receive the anonymous reporting information, which in turn, gives commanders a clearer picture of the sexual violence within their command and enhances a commander's ability to provide an environment which is safe and contributes to the well-being and mission readiness of all of its members.
The SARC will also let a Service member know that the Catch a Serial Offender (CATCH) Program is an option available to him/her. The CATCH Program gives sexual assault victims making a Restricted Report an opportunity to anonymously disclose suspect information to help the Department of Defense identify serial offenders. Participation in the CATCH Program is voluntary, and a Service member's Restricted Report will not be converted without his/her permission.