SAPR options for reporting

Published Aug. 17, 2006
By Senior Airman John Gordinier
20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- Jane was walking down the street to her favorite coffee shop when she was approached by a polite, good-looking man named Mark. He was extremely friendly and well-mannered and walked with her to the shop. While drinking coffee together, they engaged in great conversation. Jane was happy to have made a new friend. Afterwards, Mark offered Jane a ride home. Jane accepted because she was feeling a little dizzy and sick. After she got into Mark's car, she felt really tired and fell asleep. When she finally woke up, she was in a strange place, in a strange bed, with no clothes on. She got up out of bed, put her clothes on and left. While walking home, Jane realized what happened. She was drugged and sexually assaulted. She felt dirty, confused and helpless. She didn't know what to do.

What constitutes sexual assault?

It 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. The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response team has different options available for individuals who have been sexually assaulted recently or at any time in the past.

"The first thing a person should do if they've been sexually assaulted is to call the sexual assault response hotline," said Cynthia Evans, SAPR program manager. "We will provide help to them in any way they choose such as medical attention or counseling. Plus, we'll ask them questions and give them options such as restricted or unrestricted reporting."

Restricted reporting guarantees confidentiality, said Capt. Emily Dierhka, SAPR deputy. If a victim chooses to keep it restricted, no legal action can occur to the perpetrator, but medical attention, comfort, support and counseling can be provided.

In unrestricted reporting, commanders, law enforcement and investigators get involved, she said. The alleged assault will become an investigation and may go to court depending on the jurisdiction.

"Anyone can call the SARC hotline no matter when the assault happened," said Mrs. Evans. "It doesn't matter if the assault happened 10 years ago or yesterday, because the person even after 10 years is probably still traumatized. We provide help and support in any way needed for the survivor."

Once Jane got home, she picked up the phone and called the SARC hotline. The person on the line was very comforting, helpful and understanding. Jane felt better by talking to someone and realized she was not alone.