'Lik' kicks off sexual assault prevention

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Cheri Guikema
  • 39th Air Base Wing SARC
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  Did you know sexual assault is the most under-reported crime in the military and American society? Although we encourage victims to report all incidents of sexual assault to law enforcement, victims frequently do not because of concerns regarding a lack of privacy, stigma, shame, fear of being reduced in the eye's of one's commander or colleagues, fear of disciplinary action due to a victim's own misconduct, and fear of re-victimization.

The base's Sexual Assault Response Coordinator, is here to support victims of sexual assault, 24 hours-a-day 7 days-a-week, from an initial report of sexual assault, through disposition and resolution of issues related to the victim's health and well-being. All Airmen should know that the Air Force has implemented a way for individuals to confidentially report a sexual assault. This process is referred to as a restricted report and enables our Airmen to seek medical treatment and care without initiating an investigation. There are some stipulations regarding who you can tell and exceptions are made to the confidentiality if any communication reveals imminent danger, child abuse, adverse impact on duty performance or if ordered by the military or civil justice system for use in court.

Who may receive a restricted report? Only SARCs, healthcare providers, and victim advocates (once assigned by the SARC) may receive these restricted reports without triggering an investigation. A report made to a chaplain is considered privileged communication but you must still contact the SARC if you wish to receive a confidential referral for medical care or counseling. Restricted reporting is only available to military personnel on active duty and activated Reserve and National Guard (Title 10).

Unrestricted report: Unrestricted reporting is recommended for victims of sexual assault who desire an official investigation of the crime. Unrestricted reports can be made via the chain of command, law enforcement, the SARC or you can request healthcare providers notify law enforcement. Details regarding the incident will be limited to those personnel who have a legitimate need to know.

You don't have to be alone

If you have been a victim of sexual assault, remember ...

1. Report the assault immediately. Do not bathe, change clothes, brush your teeth, eat or drink, use the bathroom, or apply any type of medication to your injuries. Doing so makes it more difficult to collect forensic evidence.

2. The assault was not your fault. You did not cause it to happen. It is solely the fault of your perpetrator.

3. People are here to help. We are committed to supporting you and your family members with respect and compassion.

4. There is no "right way" to deal with a sexual assault. Expect to experience a full-range of emotions. Let the SARC/Victim Advocate put you in touch with all the resources and assistance available to you.

If you have any questions about the SARC program or want to report a sexual assault, call the SARC Hotline at DSN 676-SARC (7272) or 0533-375-7817. You can also reach the SARC via e-mail at 39ABW.SARC@incirlik.af.mil.