YOU DO NOT HAVE TO TELL LAW ENFORCEMENT OR YOUR COMMANDER ABOUT YOUR SEXUAL ASSAULT IN ORDER TO RECEIVE CARE OR ASSISTANCE.
RESTRICTED VS. UNRESTRICTED: WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?
REPORTING OPTIONS
Deciding to report a sexual assault is a very personal decision. Restricted and Unrestricted reporting options allow military members, dependents (18+), and DoD Air Force civilians who experienced sexual assault to exercise control over how and when they engage with resources.
UNRESTRICTED REPORT
An Unrestricted Report allows you to receive medical treatment, advocacy services, and legal support. As part of this option, law enforcement initiates an investigation and your chain-of-command is notified. You have the right to be reasonably protected and may also be eligible for other protections, including a Military Protective Order and/or a civilian protective order. You may also be eligible for an Expedited Transfer.
RESTRICTED REPORT
A Restricted Report allows you to receive SVC (Special Victims’ Counsel) legal advice and medical and advocacy services, but does not trigger an investigation. Information will be provided to Command that does not reveal your identity, nor that of the alleged offender.
Only these professionals can accept a Restricted Report:
• Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC)
• Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Victim Advocate (VA)
• Healthcare providers
You may still make a restricted report to the above individuals even if you disclosed the sexual assault to your chain of command. However, if you first directly report the sexual assault to law enforcement (including chain of command that is law enforcement), a restricted report is no longer an option.