Individuals who have experienced sexual assault and wish to disclose the incident confidentially, without immediately initiating an official investigation, can file a specific type of complaint under the Sexual Harassment and Assault Response Program (SHARP). This is known as a restricted report.
Understanding Restricted Reports under SHARP
The SHARP program is designed to provide support and resources to military service members and their families affected by sexual harassment and assault. When it comes to sexual assault, a restricted report offers a pathway for victims to receive care and support while maintaining control over whether an official investigation proceeds.
Who Can File a Restricted Report for Sexual Assault?
Specifically, sexual assault victims are eligible to file a restricted report. This option is available to those who:
- Have experienced a sexual assault.
- Wish to confidentially disclose the incident.
- Do not want to trigger an official criminal investigation or command notification at the time of reporting.
This approach prioritizes the victim's privacy and provides an opportunity to access critical support services without the immediate pressures of a formal investigation.
How to File a Restricted Report
To file a restricted report for sexual assault, an individual must directly contact one of the following authorized personnel:
- SARC/SHARP Specialist: Sexual Assault Response Coordinator or SHARP Specialist.
- VA/SHARP Specialist: Victim Advocate or SHARP Specialist.
- Healthcare Provider: A medical professional within the military healthcare system.
Contacting any of these individuals ensures that the report remains confidential and does not automatically lead to an official investigation. These professionals are trained to provide immediate support, information on available resources, and help victims navigate their options.
| Point of Contact | Role in Restricted Report | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| SARC/SHARP Specialist | Provides comprehensive victim advocacy and support services. | Expert guidance and resource navigation. |
| VA/SHARP Specialist | Offers advocacy, emotional support, and practical assistance. | Empathetic support and practical help. |
| Healthcare Provider | Addresses medical needs, including forensic exams if desired. | Medical care and evidence preservation (optional). |
For more comprehensive information about the program and its services, including the different reporting options, individuals can explore the official SHARP program resources provided by the U.S. military. For example, information can often be found on installation family services websites like the USAG-M Military Family Services SHARP-SAPR page.
Benefits of Choosing a Restricted Report
Opting for a restricted report provides several significant benefits for a sexual assault victim:
- Confidentiality: The details of the assault are kept private and are not shared with command or law enforcement without the victim's consent.
- Access to Care: Victims can immediately access essential medical treatment, mental health counseling, and victim advocacy services.
- Control: The victim maintains control over the reporting process and can decide later if they wish to convert their restricted report to an unrestricted report, thereby initiating an official investigation.
- Time to Heal: It allows the victim time and space to process the trauma and make informed decisions about their next steps, without the added stress of an immediate investigation.
While restricted reports specifically cater to sexual assault victims seeking confidential disclosure, the SHARP program broadly supports service members and their families by addressing both sexual harassment and sexual assault, aiming to foster a safe and respectful environment.
