Fort Belvoir
Army Sexual
Assault
Prevention and
Response Program
*This program
applies to current active duty Soldiers only.*
Sexual Assault is Incompatible with Army Values
and the Warrior Ethos. Sexual assault can reduce the strength of your entire
unit. You have a responsibility as a soldier to work to prevent sexual assault
from occurring in your unit.
Policy and Regulations
Chapter
8, AR 600-20 (Revised Final Draft - 7 July 2005)
MEDCOM
Regulation AR 40-36- Medical Facility Management of Sexual Assault (Dec 2004)
Regulation
27-10 - Rights of Crime Victims
Interim
Guidance-Army Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program (12 NOV 04)
Helpful Links:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the
myths associated with sexual assault?
Sexual Assault Awareness Info Sheet
Sexual Assault Prevention Response Guidance for Leaders
Army Sexual Assault Prevention Response Program - Help, Resources and Information
Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program Unit Victim Advocate (UVA) Training
Schedule
What is Sexual Assault?
Sexual assault is a crime. Sexual assault is defined as intentional sexual
contact, characterized by use of force, physical threat or abuse of authority
or when the victim does not or cannot consent. Sexual assault includes:
Rape
- Sexual intercourse by force and without consent.
Nonconsensual
Sodomy - Oral or anal sex by force and without consent.
Indecent
Assault - Unwanted, inappropriate sexual contact or fondling.
Carnal
Knowledge - Sexual intercourse with a child under the age 16.
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. Other sex-related offenses are defined as all other sexual
acts or acts in violation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice that do not
meet the above definition of sexual assault, or the definition of sexual harassment
as promulgated in DoD Directive 1350.2, Department of Defense Military Equal
Opportunity. Examples of other sex-related offenses could include indecent
acts with another and adultery. For the specific articles of sexual assault
offenses under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), see the Manual
for Courts-Martial (MCM).
What is the difference between sexual assault and sexual harassment?
Sexual assault and sexual harassment are not the same, although they are related
to each other.
Sexual
harassment is a form of gender discrimination that involves unwelcome sexual
advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct
of a sexual nature. For more information on sexual harassment, see Army Regulation
600-20.
There are two types of sexual harassment:
Quid
Pro Quo sexual harassment refers to conditions placed on a person's career
or terms of employment in return for sexual favors. It involves threats of
adverse actions if the victim does not submit or promises of favorable actions
if the person does submit.
Hostile
Environment sexual harassment occurs when a person is subjected to offensive,
unwanted, and unsolicited comments and behavior of a sexual nature that interferes
with that person's work performance or creates an intimidating, hostile or
offensive working environment.
Sexual
assault refers specifically to rape, forcible sodomy, indecent assault, or
carnal knowledge as defined by the UCMJ.
Sexual
assault must involve physical contact. While sexual harassment can involve
physical contact, it can also refer to verbal or other forms of gender discrimination
of a sexual nature. Sexual assault is a crime punishable by the Uniform Code
of Military Justice. Neither sexual assault nor sexual harassment has a place
in our Army.
Sexual
assault and sexual harassment can victimize males as well as females and can
occur at any time.
Both
sexual assault and sexual harassment detract from a positive unit climate and
can have detrimental effects on individual growth and teamwork. Teamwork is
vital to combat readiness.
Both
sexual assault and sexual harassment are incompatible with Army Values.
Both
sexual assault and sexual harassment are incompatible with the Warrior Ethos.
What is the Army's policy on sexual assault?
The Army policy on sexual assault is as follows:
Sexual
assault is a criminal offense that has no place in the Army. It degrades mission
readiness by devastating the Army's ability to work effectively as a team.
Sexual
assault is incompatible with Army Values and the Warrior Ethos and is punishable
under the Uniform Codes of Military Justice (UCMJ) and other federal and local
civilian laws.
The
Army will use training, education, and awareness to:
Prevent
sexual assault
Promote
the sensitive handling of victims of sexual assault
Offer
confidential counseling
Hold
those who commit sexual assault offenses accountable Reinforce a commitment
to Army Values
The
Army will treat all victims of sexual assault with dignity, fairness, and respect
The
Army will treat every sexual assault incident seriously, thoroughly investigate
the incident, and hold those who commit offenses accountable.
1. What is sexual assault?
Sexual Assault is a crime. Sexual assault is defined as intentional sexual
contact, characterized by use of force, physical threat or abuse of authority,
or when the victim does not or cannot consent. Consent should not be deemed
or construed to mean the failure by the victim to offer physical resistance.
Additionally, consent is not given when a person uses force, threat of force,
coercion or when the victim is asleep, incapacitated, or unconscious. Sexual
assault includes rape, nonconsensual sodomy (oral or anal sex), indecent assault
(e.g., unwanted and inappropriate sexual contact or fondling), or attempts
to commits these acts. Sexual assault can occur without regard to gender, spousal
relationship, or age of victim.* Other sex-related offenses are defined as
all other sexual acts or acts in violation of the Uniform Code of Military
Justice (UCMJ) that do not meet the above definition of sexual assault, or
the definition of sexual harassment as promulgated in DoD Directive 1350.2,
Department of Defense Military Equal Opportunity, para E2.1.15. For the specific
articles of sexual assault offenses under the UCMJ, see the Manual for Courts-Martial
(MCM). (*Reference- the DoD definition for sexual assault and other sex-related
offenses for all training and education purposes).
2. What is the difference between sexual assault and sexual harassment?
Sexual assault is defined above in question 1. Sexual harassment differs in
that it is a form of gender discrimination that involves unwelcome sexual advances,
requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual
nature. There are two types of sexual harassment:
Quid Pro Quo sexual harassment refers to conditions placed on a person's career
or terms of employment in return for sexual favors. It involves threats of
adverse actions if the victim does not submit or promises of favorable actions
if the person does submit.
Hostile Environment sexual harassment occurs when
a person is subjected to offensive, unwanted, and unsolicited comments and
behavior of a sexual nature that interferes with that person's work performance
or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive working environment.
As an example, an unsolicited backrub is a form of physical conduct of a sexual
nature and can be considered sexual harassment. Once the individual is told
to stop but continues the behavior, it may become indecent assault (a form
of sexual assault). However, it would only be sexual assault if unwanted, inappropriate
sexual contact or fondling is associated with the unsolicited backrub.
For more information on sexual harassment, see Army Regulation 600-20, Chapter
7.
3. If I am sexually assaulted, what should I do?
First, get to a safe place. If you are in need of urgent medical attention,
call 911. If you are not injured, you still need medical assistance to protect
your health. The medical treatment facility (MTF) offers you a safe and caring
environment. To protect evidence, it is important that you do not shower,
brush your teeth, put on make-up, eat, drink, or change your clothes until
advised to do so. You or the MTF may report the crime to law enforcement,
criminal investigation agencies, or to your chain of command. If you feel
uncomfortable reporting the crime, consider calling a confidential counseling
resource available to you. Here you may discuss your concerns and questions
regarding the assault and the reporting process. (See the list of resources
in Item #8 of this document).
4. Where are victims of sexual assault referred?
Victims of sexual assault should be referred to a MTF as soon as possible and
encouraged to contact Army law enforcement (MPs or CID). A list of resources
may be found in item # 8 of this document.
5. Can a person who has been sexually assaulted a year ago still report
it?
Sexual assault can be reported at any time. Once CID or medical is notified
of a sexual assault, the procedures are the same regardless of the amount of
time since the assault. Soldiers should be encouraged to come forward as soon
as possible, so that all possible evidence is collected and preserved before
it is lost, destroyed or altered. Early reporting also provides the best opportunity
to gather testimony from possible witnesses before their memories fade or they
move to other locations. Delayed reporting makes it more difficult to investigate
the incident and reduces the ability to prosecute the case. However, victims
are strongly encouraged to report crimes, no matter how long after an assault
occurred, and CID agents will do their best to investigate the incident and
provide a factual and actionable report to the appropriate judicial authority.
Even late reporting can impact other investigations and may assist in identifying
and prosecuting a criminal.
6. What resources are available to care for victims of sexual assault?
Military One Source offers real help, anytime, anywhere. A master's level consultant
will speak to victims who are eligible for this service at no charge, 24/7/365.
CONUS call 1.800.655.4545, internationally toll free at 800.3429.6477 or internationally
dialed collect at 484.530.5947. Other resources are the local Medical Treatment
Facility; Military Police/Criminal Investigation Division; your commander,
supervisor, or First Sergeant; the chaplain, social services, family advocacy,
and legal services. Military One Source, Army psychiatric counselors, and chaplains
are confidential counseling channels.
7. When recovering from a sexual assault, what may a victim expect?
Every person reacts differently to sexual assault. There are five stages of
recovery, which most victims will experience to some degree. It is not unusual
for different people to experience the stages in different orders or even to
repeat stages several times. These stages are:
Stage 1: Initial Shock - Shock following an assault can take on many forms.
Victims may experience emotional as well as physical shock, which in turn could
be expressed as very controlled, and/or withdrawn, or, highly expressive, including
crying, screaming or shaking. Victims may or may not feel comfortable communicating
these feeling others.
Stage 2: Denial - This stage may find victims attempting to go on with a normal
routine and wanting to forget about the assault. This denial or rationalization
of what happened is an attempt to deal with inner turmoil.
Stage 3: Reactivation - This stage involves a re-experiencing of the feelings
from Stage 1, usually brought on by the triggering of memories of the assault.
Feelings of depression, anxiety and shame increase. Other symptoms can include
nightmares, flashbacks, and a sense of vulnerability, mistrust and physical
complaints.
Stage 4: Anger - Victims may experience feelings of anger - often toward themselves,
friends, significant others, society, the legal system, all men/women, etc.
Sometimes through counseling, this anger can be dispelled.
Stage 5: Integration (Closure) - As victims integrate the thoughts and feelings
stemming from the assault into their life experience victims will begin to
feel "back on track." As a result of support, education and the passage
of time, victims may feel strengthened.
8. Are there resources available on sexual assault?
Yes, visit http://www.sexualassault.army.mil for
available resources.
9. Can men be sexually assaulted?
Yes, men may be victims of forcible sodomy or indecent assault. Therefore,
all resources for sexual assault are available, regardless of gender.
10. How should I respond if a man tells me he has been assaulted?
The response is the same for any victim, regardless of gender. Reference the
information in item 3 and follow the guidance listed.
11. What legal representation and/or assistance does a Soldier have
when he or she is sexually assaulted?
A Soldier victim will be assigned a Victim Witness Liaison (VWL) who will explain
the rights of victims and will keep the Soldier informed of all of the steps
in the legal proceedings involving his/her case. However, victims of sexual
assault are not represented by a criminal, military attorney. A military attorney
can answer questions about the legal process and related proceedings but will
not represent the victim. See AR 27-10, Military Justice, chapter 18 for more
details on victim's rights and the role of the VWL. A victim may also seek
legal advice from a military or civilian attorney at their installation legal
assistance office.
12. What happens when sexual assault occurs across the services?
When sexual assault occurs across Services, CID works together with their counterparts
in the US Air Force Office of Special Investigations and/or the Naval Criminal
Investigative Service. There is often a joint investigation with each Service's
criminal investigation agency conducting complimentary investigative tasks
to prepare a complete final report that can be provided to the appropriate
Service's action commander and corresponding Staff Judge Advocate (lawyer).
13. What happens when a soldier is sexually assaulted by someone outside
the military (civilians) or by someone from another country (military or
civilian)?
CID will be involved in sexual assault cases that involve an Army victim or
that affect the Army. Typically, CID conducts joint investigations with civilian
police authorities (US or foreign) or with foreign military law enforcement
agencies in these types of cases. Each investigative agency conducts complimentary
investigative tasks to prepare a complete final report that can be provided
to the appropriate judicial authority (military or civilian). CID routinely
conducts many joint investigations with civilian and other military law enforcement
agencies on a variety of felony crimes. Joint investigations are a normal business
practice within the criminal investigative field.
14. As a soldier, what are my obligations to report a sexual assault
if I am aware of it as a third party?
Anytime there is knowledge of a crime, or a crime to be committed in the future,
the individual should report it to the MP, CID, or the chain of command.
15. Will military sex offenders be registered in state and federal
authorities?
Yes, all military sex offenders must register with the state sex offender register
and the installation provost marshal as required by federal and state statutes.
What are the myths associated with sexual assault?
Myth: Strangers commit most sexual assaults.
Fact: Victims usually know their assailant.
In nearly 70 percent of sexual assaults on women, the assailant was someone
the victim knew i.e., a coworker, boyfriend, neighbor, family member, and
friend.
Myth: Rape is about sexual desire.
Fact: Sex has little to do with it. Sex becomes the
weapon, the vehicle to accomplish the desired end result, which is to overwhelm,
overpower, embarrass, and humiliate another person. Also, looking at typical
victims shows clearly that this crime is not about sex: Children and the
elderly are at high risk of being raped because of their vulnerability. An
attacker can easily overpower these victims.
Myth: Rapist are psychotic or sick men.
Fact: Less than 5% of convicted rapist are clinically
diagnosed as psychotic. The media presents these cases to the public because
of the bizarre nature of the rapes, but the rapist can be anyone.
Myth: Men cannot be sexually assaulted.
Fact: Men can be sexually assaulted, and
they are often assaulted by heterosexual males. Male rape occurs in the public
sector, and in the Army, not just in jail. It is very rarely reported. Male
sexual assaults often happen when the victim is a child. 5% of all sexual
assault victims are men.
Myth: Rape is rare and will never happen to
me.
Fact: A rape occurs every 6 minutes. The FBI
estimates that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 10 men will be sexually assaulted in
their lifetime. Most rapes are not even reported. 20% of women across America
have been sexually assaulted. According to a recent study, up to 28% of military
females are sexually assaulted during their military career.
Sexual Assault Awareness Information Sheet
Awareness
What is Sexual Assault?
Sexual Assault is a crime. Sexual assault is defined as intentional sexual contact, 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. Other sex-related offenses are defined as all other sexual acts or acts in violation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice that do not meet the above definition of sexual assault, or the definition of sexual harassment as promulgated in DoD Directive 1350.2, Department of Defense Military Equal Opportunity. Examples of other sex-related offenses could include indecent acts with another and adultery. For the specific articles of sexual assault offenses under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), see the Manual for Courts-Martial (MCM).
Sexual assault and sexual harassment
Sexual assault and sexual harassment are not the same, although they are related
to each
other.
¥ Sexual harassment is a form of gender discrimination that involves
unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or
physical conduct of a sexual nature. For more information on sexual harassment,
see Army
Regulation 600-20.
There are two types of sexual harassment:
o Quid Pro Quo sexual harassment refers to conditions placed on a
person's career or terms of employment in return for sexual favors. It involves
threats of adverse actions if the victim does not submit or promises of favorable
actions if the person does submit
o Hostile Environment sexual harassment occurs when a person is subjected
to offensive, unwanted, and unsolicited comments and behavior of a sexual nature
that have the interferes with that person's work performance or creates an
intimidating, hostile or offensive working environment.
¥ Sexual assault refers specifically to rape, forcible sodomy, indecent assault,
or carnal knowledge as defined by the UCMJ.
¥ Sexual assault must involve physical contact. While sexual harassment can
involve physical contact, it can also refer to verbal or other forms of gender
discrimination of a sexual nature. Sexual assault is a crime punishable by
the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Neither sexual assault nor sexual harassment
has a place in our Army.
¥ Sexual assault and sexual harassment can victimize males as well as females
and can occur at any time.
¥ Both sexual assault and sexual harassment detract from a positive unit climate
and can have detrimental effects on individual growth and teamwork. Teamwork
is vital to combat readiness.
¥ Both sexual assault and sexual harassment are incompatible with Army Values.
¥ Both sexual assault and sexual harassment are incompatible with the Warrior
Ethos.
What is the Army's policy on sexual assault?
The Army policy on sexual assault is as follows:
¥ Sexual assault is a criminal offense that has no place in the Army. It degrades
mission readiness by devastating the Army's ability to work effectively as
a team
¥ Sexual assault is incompatible with Army Values and the Warrior Ethos and
is punishable under the Uniform Codes of Military Justice (UCMJ) and other
federal and local civilian laws
¥ The Army will use training, education, and awareness to -
o Prevent sexual assault
o Promote the sensitive handling of victims of sexual assault
o Offer confidential counseling
o Hold those who commit sexual assault offenses accountable Reinforce a commitment
to Army Values
¥ The Army will treat all victims of sexual assault with dignity, fairness,
and respect
¥ The Army will treat every sexual assault incident seriously, thoroughly investigate
the incident, and hold those who commit offenses accountable.
Sexual Assault is Incompatible with Army Values and the Warrior Ethos
Sexual assault can reduce the strength of your entire unit. You have a responsibility
as a Soldier to work to prevent sexual assault from occurring in your unit.
For more information, please contact the Fort Belvoir Sexual Assault
Response
Coordinator & Victim Advocacy Program,
Office: 703-805-2631
DSN: 655-2631
Afterhours: 703-919-0986
24 hours daily, 7 days per week
Help is only a phone call awayÉÉ
Prevention
How can I reduce my risk of being sexually assaulted?
According to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), someone
is sexually assaulted in
the United States every two minutes (RAINN calculation based on USDOJ NCVS
data). By being
prepared, alert and assertive,
you can reduce your risk of being sexually assaulted.
Be Assertive
¥ Being assertive means that you state what you want.
¥ Remember: "No" means "No." If you do
not want to be intimate with another person, tell him or her clearly. Use a
confident voice and body posture.
Be Prepared
¥ Travel with a buddy.
¥ Stay in groups, as there is safety in numbers.
¥ Plan your outings and avoid getting into a bad situation.
¥ Stay sober. Studies indicate that about half of all U.S. sexual assaults
involve the use of alcohol by the offender, the victim, or both.
¥ Never leave a drink unattended. Educate yourself about date rape drugs.
¥ Walk only in lighted areas after dark.
¥ Keep the doors to homes, barracks, and cars locked.
¥ Know where the phone is located.
¥ Don't go anywhere alone with someone unless you know the person very well
and trust him or her.
Be Alert
¥ Match your body language to your
words - don't laugh and smile while saying "No."
¥ Do not just "go along" for the wrong reasons.
¥ Watch out for warning signs or "red flags" from
your partner in intimate situations.
¥ Trust your instincts; if a place or person feels unsafe,
it probably is.
¥ Watch for signs of trouble such as strangers in private areas or persons
loitering in places where they shouldn't be.
¥ If you sense trouble, get to a safe place as
soon as possible.
¥ If you feel you are in danger, attract help any way
you can.
¥ Don't dress in view of a window.
¥ According to The Acting Secretary of the Army's Task
Force Report on Sexual Assault Policies, from 1999
to 2004, 67% of the sexual assaults involving Army personnel occurred on post. Report any
unauthorized or suspicious males or females
in the barracks.
Reducing your risk in a deployed environment
Be especially prepared and alert in deployed environments. Deployed environments
can present special risks for Army personnel:
¥ Sleeping areas (tents, bunkers, and other buildings) may be less secure in
a deployed environment. Report any unauthorized males or females in sleeping
areas
¥ Many non-Army personnel are present in deployed unit and working areas
¥ Be alert and aware of your surroundings. Deployed environments may have different
lighting conditions and facilities than those in garrison.
¥ Different cultures may treat females differently than they are treated in
the U.S. Be assertive and clearly state if you feel uncomfortable with how
someone is treating you. To reduce your risk in a deployed environment, travel
with a buddy.
What is acquaintance or "date" rape?
"Acquaintance rape," which includes date rape, refers to those rapes
that occur between people that know one another. "Date rape" refers
to situations in which one person has consented to go on a date with another
person and that person then rapes him or her. According to RAINN, about two-thirds
of sexual assault victims in the United States knew their assailants. According
to the Sexual Assault Risk Reduction Curriculum, produced by the Office of
Community Oriented Policing Services and the City of San Diego, to reduce your
risk of acquaintance or date rape:
¥ Set sexual limits. Stop or slow down before
you get to your sexual limit. It is your body and no one has the right to force,
harass, or coerce you into doing anything that you don't want to do.
¥ Trust your instincts. If you feel you are being forced into
unwanted sex, you probably are.
¥ Decide before you are alone with someone what your sexual limits with the
person are.
¥ Don't do anything that you don't want to do just to avoid disagreement, unpleasantness,
or embarrassment.
¥ Practice being assertive: state what you want. Use a confident
voice and body posture. Look directly at him or her and say "No" in
a firm, serious voice. Match your body language to your words - don't laugh
and smile while saying "No."
¥ Avoid alcohol and drugs. Your best defense is having a clear mind.
¥ Always have extra money to get home. Have a plan for someone you can call
if you need help.
¥ If you feel uncomfortable, scared, or pressured, act quickly to end the situation.
Say, "Stop it" and leave or call for help.
¥ Remember that you have the right to say "No" even
if you:
o Say yes, but change your mind
o Have been kissing or "making out"
o Have had sex with this partner before
o Have been drinking alcohol
o Are wearing provocative clothing
Remember: these tips can help reduce your risk of sexual assault, but they
will never completely eliminate the risk.
If you say "No" and still feel threatened, leave immediately
or call for help.
If you are sexually assaulted, it's not your fault. Sexual assault
is a crime, and nothing you do, or do not do, makes you responsible
for the crime.
Look
for "red flags"
The Sexual Assault Risk Reduction Curriculum emphasizes
looking for "red
flags" when you are in intimate situations. Red flags are
things that are said or done that may make you feel like the person you are
with is not safe. Trusting your instincts can mean paying attention to these
red flags.
Red
Flags to Watch Out For
You should be especially alert if the person you are with:
¥ Ignores, interrupts, or makes fun of you
¥ Sits or stands too close to you or stares at you
¥ Has a reputation for being a "player"
¥ Drinks too much or uses drugs; tries to get you to use drugs or alcohol
¥ Tries to touch or kiss you or gets into your "personal space" when
you barely know him or her
¥ Wants to be alone with you before getting to know you, or pressures you to
be alone together
¥ Does what he or she wants without asking what you want
¥ Gets angry or sulks if he or she doesn't get what he or she wants
¥ Pressures you to have sex, or tries to make you feel guilty for saying "no."
Be aware of "date rape drugs" and how they are used
The Department of Health and Human Services' National Women's Health Center
offers the following
information about date rape drugs:
¥ There are at least three date rape drugs:
o GHB (gamma hydroxybutyric acid). GHB has a few forms: a liquid with no odor
or color, a white powder, and a pill
o Rohypnol (flunitrazepam). Rohypnol is a pill and dissolves in liquid.
o Ketamine (ketamine hydrochloride). Ketamine is a white powder.
¥ Date rape drugs are meant to leave the victim helpless to
stop a sexual assault. Victims may be physically helpless, unable to refuse
sex, and unable to remember what happened.
¥ The drugs often have no color, smell, or taste and are easily added to flavored
drinks without the victim's knowledge
¥ Alcohol can worsen the drug's effects
¥ How can I protect myself from being a victim of a date rape drug?
o Don't accept drinks from other people, except trusted friends.
o Open containers yourself.
o Keep your drink with you at all times, even when you go to the bathroom.
o Don't share drinks.
o Don't drink from punch bowls or other large, common, open containers. They
may already have drugs in them.
o Don't drink anything that tastes or smells strange. Sometimes, GHB tastes
salty.
o Have a non-drinking friend with you to make sure nothing happens.
Remember that alcohol can also be used by offenders to incapacitate a potential
victim. Alcohol is also relatively easy for an offender to obtain. Stay alert
and aware of your surroundings.
How can I reduce my risk of becoming a sexual assault offender?
Sexual assault involves two or more people. To reduce your risk of being accused
of sexual assault:
¥ Remember: sexual assault is a crime. You will be held responsible
for your actions.
¥ Ensure that your partner consents to sexual activity. You must have consent
from your partner before you can legally engage in sexual activity. If someone
is passed out, unconscious, or asleep from alcohol, drugs, or fatigue, they
are legally unable to give their consent.
¥ Ensure a potential partner is of legal ageÉignorance is no excuse. The "age
of consent", or the age at which someone can legally give consent for
sexual activity, varies by state. It is as high as 18 years of age in some
states.
¥ Communicate your expectations to a potential partner. Misunderstandings and
lack of communication, especially between people who don't know each other
very well, can lead to dangerous and career-threatening situations.
¥ Avoid using drugs or excessive alcohol. People under the influence of alcohol
or drugs often have different memories of how an event occurs.
¥ Remember that No means No even if the other person:
o Says yes, but changes his or her mind
o Has been kissing you or "making out" with you
o Has had sex with you before
o Has been drinking alcohol
o Wears provocative clothing.
If you're not sure how your partner feels about your actions, ask the
question!
Remember: No means No
What can I do to help prevent others from being sexually
assaulted?
Dr. David Lisak, a professor of psychology at the University of Massachusetts
Boston and director of the Men's Sexual Trauma Research Project, has conducted
extensive research on men who commit sexual assaults. His
research has shown that most sexual assaults are committed by a small number
of men who commit multiple offenses against victims with whom they have some
degree of acquaintance. As an Army soldier, you should report immediately any
activity that indicates a sexual assault may take place or has taken place.
Report any of the following activities immediately to your
commander, Military Police, or another authority:
¥ Someone planning to commit a sexual assault
¥ Conversations with others about getting another person drunk or stoned to
make them less inhibited or easier to force into sexual relations
¥ Someone describing or bragging about a situation in which they physically
forced another person into sex
¥ Conversations where someone brags that their partner didn't want to have
sex but they did so anyway
¥ Evidence or conversation about the use of date rape drugs.
Remember: The safety of your fellow soldiers, your unit, and
your community may depend on your reporting of these incidents. You should
report any suspicious behavior immediately.
Guidance for Leaders
Interim Guidance-Army Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program (12 NOV
04)- ALARACT.doc
As an Army leader, what can I do to help prevent sexual assault
in my unit?
Commanders have a responsibility to establish a command climate where safety
is promoted, where soldiers and Army civilian employees are educated on sexual
assault risk reduction techniques, and where soldiers and Army civilians feel
free to report incidents.
Sexual assault is a unit readiness and safety risk
Sexual assault is a crime that is incompatible with Army Values and the Warrior
Ethos. Sexual assault directly and negatively impacts readiness across the
force. Take the following actions to help reduce the risk of sexual assault
in your unit:
¥ Educate and train your unit on sexual assault prevention
o Educate soldiers and Army civilian employees about the definition of sexual
assault, the Army policy regarding sexual assault, and prevention measures
they can take to reduce their risk of sexual assault.
o Conduct Considerations of Others training in your unit to
increase the unit's understanding of the risks of sexual assault and the steps
they can take to reduce the risk.
o Conduct unit refresher training on sexual assault prevention in your unit.
Soldiers will receive sexual assault prevention training in Initial Entry Training.
o Consider the risk of sexual assault and conduct unit safety briefs during
high-risk periods such as holidays and deployments.
¥ Monitor the command climate to ensure that it is supportive of victims
o Ensure that soldiers and Army civilian employees feel comfortable in reporting
sexual assault to the chain of command. You can do this by communicating your
intention to protect and treat victims of sexual assault and by making it clear
that you will follow Army policy in fully investigating all incidents of sexual
assault.
o Communicate to soldiers and Army civilian employees that you and your chain
of command will provide caring assistance to victims of sexual assault.
o Make sure soldiers and Army civilian employees know that the chain of command
will take appropriate disciplinary action.
o Continually assess the command climate regarding the risk of sexual assault
in your unit.
o Demonstrate, through your words and actions, that sexual assault is unacceptable
and is incompatible with Army Values and the Warrior Ethos.
Reducing the risk of acquaintance or date rape in your unit
"Acquaintance rape," which includes date rape, refers to those rapes
that occur between two or more people that know one another. "Date rape" refers
to situations in which the one person has consented to go on a date with another
person and that person then rapes him or her. According to the Rape,
Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), about two-thirds of sexual assault
victims in the United States knew their assailants. To help prevent acquaintance
or date rape:
¥ Educate soldiers and Army civilian employees on the importance of maintaining
alertness by avoiding alcohol and drug use
¥ Encourage assertiveness and communication in dating and other intimate situations
¥ Educate soldiers and Army civilian employees on the dangers of "date
rape drugs."
Deployed unit risk reduction considerations
Be especially prepared and alert in deployed environments. Deployed environments
can present special risks for Army personnel:
¥ Sleeping areas (tents, bunkers, and other buildings) may be less secure in
deployed environments.
¥ Encourage soldiers to report any unauthorized males or females in sleeping
areas.
¥ Implement security measures around sleeping areas, especially at night.
¥ Many non-Army personnel are present in deployed unit and working areas. Encourage
soldiers to be alert and aware of their surroundings.
¥ Different cultures may treat females differently than they are treated in
the U.S. Encourage soldiers and civilians, especially women, to be assertive
and clearly state if they feel uncomfortable with how someone is treating them.
Encourage them to report any inappropriate behavior to you immediately.
¥ Minimize your soldier's risk by recommending they travel with a buddy.
As an Army leader, what are my responsibilities when a sexual assault
occurs in my unit?
Army leaders play a key role in the response to sexual assault in the Army.
These leaders include commanders, supervisors, law enforcement personnel, legal
and social services, and health-care personnel.
If you are in a position of authority:
¥ Enforce the Army policy on sexual assault and make sure subordinates enforce
it, too.
¥ Treat each incident seriously by following the proper guidelines.
The victim should never be blamed based on past history, nor should it be assumed
that the victim instigated the incident.
¥ Inform each party of the Victim's Rights under AR 27-10.
¥ Report the allegations to law enforcement for a thorough investigation.
¥ Keep all information confidential and disclose information only to those
who have an official need to know - it's the right of the accuser and the accused.
¥ Notify the chaplain if the victim wants pastoral counseling or assistance.
¥ Ensure that the needs of the victim's family are considered.
¥ Make sure victims are aware of the military and civilian resources that are
available to them under the Victim and Witness Assistance Program (VWAP).
¥ Encourage the victim to get a medical examination, even if the incident occurred
prior to the past 72 hours. It is important for the victim to seek medical
attention to assess possible injury, sexually transmitted diseases, and pregnancy.
Your first priority: care for the victim
As a commander, you have a responsibility to ensure that victims of sexual
assault receive sensitive care
and support and are not re-victimized as a result of reporting the incident.
You have a range of command
options available to help you fulfill your responsibility to protect sexual
assault victims. As a commander,
you should seek the assistance of your servicing judge advocate.
¥ In order to protect sexual assault victims, you have the option of geographically
separating the victim and the alleged offender. Commanders should
determine whether the victim wants to be transferred to another unit. By
considering the victim's preferences and all relevant facts and circumstances
of the case, commanders can avoid subjecting the victim to the "double
victimization" that is sometimes perceived when a victim is transferred
from the unit.
¥ Military Protective Orders (MPOs), DD Form 2873, referred
to as "no contact orders," are also an effective tool for commanders
to maintain the safety of the victim.
¥ Some Army sexual victims report being hesitant to report sexual assaults
when they feel they will open themselves up for disciplinary action for related
offenses, such as drug or alcohol use, that are related to the assault. As
a commander, you have the option to delay action on any victim misconduct
related to an assault until after the investigation and prosecution
for the assault is complete.
Your reporting and other responsibilities
Unit Commanders must implement and support the Army's Sexual Assault Prevention
and Response Program. Commanders must:
¥ Report all disciplinary action taken against soldiers involved in the assault
by using form DA Form 4833, Commander's Report of Disciplinary
or Administrative Action.
¥ Report incidents of sexual assault to the Criminal Investigation Division
(CID) per AR 195-1, paragraph 6.
¥ Support participation by soldiers and Army civilians in sexual assault prevention
and awareness training.
¥ Continually assess the command climate through various methods (e.g., focus
groups, surveys, talking with soldiers).
For Help, Resources, and Information:
Fort Belvoir Sexual Assault Response Coordinator & Victim
Advocacy Program
Army Community Service Family Advocacy Program, 5820 21st Fort Belvoir, VA
22060
Telephone 1-703-919-0986, 24 hours, 7 days per week
DC Rape Crisis Center
24 Hour Hotline 202-333-RAPE
The
Office on Women's Sexual Assault Response and Awareness (SARA) Program
110 N. Royal Street, Suite 201
Alexandria, VA 22314
703- 838-5030
Sexual Assault Crisis Center
13928 Jefferson Davis Hwy, (703) 497-1192
Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board Victim Assistance
Network Hotline 703.360.7273
Rappannock Area Council on Sexual Assault
P.O. Box 1276 Fredericksburg, Va 22402
540-371-1666
National Sexual Assault Hotline:
Toll Free 1-800-656-HOPE, 24 hours, 7 days per week
National Domestic Violence Hotline:
Toll Free 1-800-799-SAFE, 24 hours, 7 days per week
Army Sexual Assault Prevention & Response Website: www.sexualassault.army.mil
Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program Unit Victim
Advocate (UVA) Training Schedule
The dates are as follows: 2-5-Sept (Intl. UVA Training), 6-Nov
(Refresher Training), 27-Jan-2009 (Refresher Training).