Safety: Sexual Assault

Rape and Sexual assault Prevention

It may seem that sexual assault may not be prevalent in our battalion; however, with all that has been happening around campus, it is important to know just what is wrong. 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, non consensual sodomy (oral or anal sex), indecent assault (unwanted, inappropriate sexual contact or fondling), or attempts to commit these acts. Sexual assault is a criminal offense incompatible with the Army’s high standards of professionalism and discipline.

Measures to avoid becoming a Victim of sexual assault

1. Be aware of your surroundings and be careful not to overindulge in alcohol.
2. Walk only in lighted areas after dark.
3. Buy time with the rapist by talking.
4. Attract help/attention.
5. Report misconduct
6. Do not be intimidated.

If you are a victim, you should

1. Go to a safe place where a phone is available.
2. Call the local or military police.
3. Avoid showering, douching, changing clothes, or straightening up the site where you were victimized since that may affect any subsequent investigation that may occur.
4. Go directly to a hospital or clinic and have the police notified for you.
5. Call someone from your chain of command, a friend, a rape hot line, or social work services.

When assisting a victim, you should

1. Listen to what the victim has to say and sympathize.
2. Do not ask what the victim did to cause this to happen.
3. Support the victim in the decision and effort to report the crime.
4. Encourage them to talk to a professional counselor.