As the Uniformed Victim Advocates for the 1st Marine Corps District, it is our responsibility to provide confidential support and services to victims of sexual assault.  These responsibilities were set forth in policies established by the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program at Headquarters U.S. Marine Corps.

Sexual assault is a crime.  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.  Sexual assault can occur without regard to gender, spousal relationship, or age of the victim.  In the event of a sexual assault, a victim has the option of a Restricted Report, which means they can receive services and medical care anonymously.  Most military personnel are mandatory reporters of sexual assault, except where policy has made certain members exempt through confidentiality as in the case of Victim Advocates, Uniformed Victim Advocates, Sexual Assault Response Coordinators, Marine & Family Services personnel, and healthcare providers.

If you are a victim of sexual assault, contact your SARC or Uniformed Victim Advocate immediately.  We will ensure you receive prompt medical attention and will advise you of your options in reporting the assault.  We assist victims in dealing with command, law enforcement, and medical personnel; if desired, we can be present during medical exams and court proceedings.  If talking to a civilian is your preference, Victim Advocates, civilian members of the M&FS program, are also available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to provide crisis intervention and support for victims of sexual assault.

PLEASE BE SURE TO SPEAK TO A UNIFORMED VICTIM ADVOCATE OR VICTIM ADVOCATE BEFORE YOU CONTACT LAW ENFORCEMENT OR YOUR COMMAND.  Once you inform law enforcement officials or a representative from your command, a restricted report is no longer an option.

It is vital that sexual assaults be reported.  This is not only for your own health and safety, but for the health and safety of others who may become victims.  Although you may understandably feel frightened or embarrassed, please do not allow those feelings to influence your decision to report the crime.  Remember, this is a crime against you, and you are not to blame-the perpetrator is.

For 24/7 victim advocate support call (843) 228-3599.

DoD Safe Helpline: 1 (877) 995-5247.

Reporting

Reporting Options

Unrestricted Reporting

Initiates an official law enforcement investigation & the support of the chain of command

An official law enforcement investigation is conducted in order to hold the offender accountable

Command is notified and therefore able to provide the maximum care and support to the victim

Restricted Reporting

Allows the victim to report confidentially & receive help without an investigation or command involvement

Supports victims who need more time or simply don’t feel comfortable coming forward

A law enforcement investigation is not initiated

Victim’s Commanding Officer is notified within 24 hours that an incident has occurred, however, no identifying information will be provided

Victims can choose to make a Restricted Report Unrestricted at any time.

Once an Unrestricted Report has been made, the restricted option is no longer available.

For an Unrestricted Report, the victim can contact:

SAPR Victim Advocate

Civilian Victim Advocate

Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC)

DOD SAPR

Eastern Recruiting Region SAPR