Sexual Assault Prevention

Sexual Assault Prevention

Sexual Assault Prevention

Every two minutes a woman is sexually assaulted in the United States (FBI, 2003). According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, sexual assault is the most under-reported violent crime in the United States. In 2005, the Armed Forces received 2,374 reports of alleged cases of sexual assault involving its members. Of these figures, the Air Force received 584 reports. That is an increase of 28 percent over the past year (DoD, 2005). The Air Force is concerned with the safety, dignity, and well-being of all its members. The Air Force does not tolerate sexual assault and has implemented a comprehensive policy that reinforces prevention, response, and accountability.

It doesn't matter if you are an Airmen Basic, Chief Master Sergeant, or General our focus should always be on sexual assault prevention. The Air Force implemented an aggressive prevention plan by designating points of contact at every strategic level. These levels include the headquarters, major commands, and all bases. In addition, the Air Force mandated sexual assault awareness training for all 360,000 airmen stationed worldwide. The training class consists of a lecture, a 30 minute video, and follow-up discussion. Lt General Roger Brady, Air Force deputy chief of staff, said "Through our educational efforts, we are strengthening a culture where airmen step up, hold each other accountable and help in preventing sexual assault." He continued to state, "This cannot and will not be a one-time effort. It must become part of the very fiber of who we are in order to effect lasting change." (AFPN, 2006). Prevention is important, but in instances where it fails victims of sexual assault must receive the care and support that they need in a timely manner.

There are a number of barriers that discourage victims from reporting sexual assault to investigators. In a survey of victims who did not report rape to law enforcement, 43% cited that no report was made because they thought nothing could be done, 27% felt it was a private matter, and 12% were afraid of law enforcement response (Kilpatrick, 1992). The Air Force is focusing on eliminating those barriers by providing both unrestricted and restricted reporting. Unrestricted reporting is recommended for victims of sexual assault who desire medical treatment, counseling, and an official investigation of the crime. Since June 2005, military victims of sexual assault have been offered a restricted reporting option, which allows those who have been sexually assaulted to receive medical treatment and support without automatically triggering a criminal investigation.

In an effort to ensure victims receive consistency in support services provided, the Air Force has instituted essential training tasks for first response groups, such as medical personnel, law enforcement and chaplains. Furthermore, the Air Force has trained 201 permanent Sexual Assault Response Coordinators (SARC) to be on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Offenders can only be held accountable for their