Sexual Assault is defined as intentional sexual conduct, characterized by use of force, physical threat or abuse of authority or when the victim does not or cannot consent. Sexual assault includes rape, nonconsensual sodomy (oral or anal sex), indecent assault (unwanted, inappropriate sexual contact or fondling), or attempts to commit these acts. Sexual assault can occur without regard to gender or spousal relationship or age of victim.

Consent shall not be deemed or construed to mean the failure by the victim to offer physical resistance. Consent is not given when a person uses force, threat of force, coercion or when the victim is asleep, incapacitated, or unconscious.

Victim Advocates provide resources for immediate and ongoing intervention and support to victims of sexual assault. This is strictly a voluntary service. Victim advocates ensure availability of 24-hour victim services either through personal or telephonic contact.

Restricted Reporting: Victims of sexual assault who wish to confidentially disclose the crime without triggering an official investigation, must contact the SARC, a Victim Advocate or a health care provider. Restricted Reporting is available to active duty military and their dependents (spouses and children 18 years and older), Coast Guard, Reservist performing federal training, members of the National Guard under Title 10 status and DoD civilian employees. Retired members of any component are not eligible.

Unrestricted Reporting: Victims of sexual assault who want to initiate an official investigation, should use current reporting channels, e.g. AFOSI, chain of command, local law enforcement or the SARC, SAPR VA or certified Volunteer Victim Advocate. They may also request their health care provider contact law enforcement.

Independent Reporting: is an assault reported by someone other than the victim.

Bottom Line: Sexual assault is a crime! If you feel you are a victim of sexual assault and want to keep your options open, please contact the SARC at (877) 316-4689. This will ensure your right to decide on restricted or unrestricted reporting. The SARC or their representative is available 24-hours-a-day. The AF Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program is here to assist active duty members through this process.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted and you need assistance, please follow these guidelines:

• Immediately report any assault.
• Never hesitate to get help.
• It is recommended you do not change clothes, but if you feel you must, bring soled clothing in a paper bag-not plastic.
• Do not eat or drink anything.
• Do not shower, brush your teeth or use mouthwash.
• Do not take or apply any type of medication to any injuries.
• Do not use the bathroom, but if you must, bring urine for testing in a plastic container.
• Do not disturb or clean up the crime scene.

You do not have to be alone!

• The assault was NOT your fault. You did not cause it to happen.
• People are here to help. We are committed to supporting you and your family members in the most sensitive and private way possible.
• There is no "right way" in dealing with sexual assault. It is okay to be angry and it is important to stand up for yourself when you are ready.
• Take care of yourself and ask for what you need. Remember, before washing or cleaning up, seek medical attention.

 

The Air Force Special Victims' Counsel provides support to victims of sexual assault through independent representation; builds and sustains victim resiliency; empowers victims; increases the level of legal assistance provided to victims. Sexual assault victims can contact their local Sexual Assault Response Coordinator or Legal Office to make a request for an SVC. The SVC Program Office will detail an SVC within 48 hours (when practicable) of receiving a request.

Air Force victim advocates provide essential support, liaison services and care for victims of sexual assault.

Victim Advocates are active duty military personnel and DoD civilian employees selected by the SARC and who are a DoD-certified Victim Advocate.

Victim Advocates are volunteers who must possess the maturity and experience to assist in very sensitive situations.  

Responsibilities include:

• Providing crisis intervention, referral and ongoing non-clinical support.
• Providing information on available options and resources to assist the victim in making informed decisions about the case.
• Services will continue until the victim states support is no longer needed.
• Does not provide counseling or other professional services to a victim.
• May be present with the victim, at the victim's request, during investigative interviews, legal proceedings and medical examinations.  

Become a Volunteer

The Air Force core values and respect are the foundation of our Wingman culture--a culture in which we look out for each other and take care of each other. Incidents of sexual assault corrode the very fabric of our Wingman culture; therefore, we must strive for an environment where this behavior is not tolerated and where all Airmen are respected. For more information on becoming a Victim Advocate, please contact the SAPR office at 301-981-1442/3449.