As an expert in the field of military and civilian reporting protocols, I can provide a comprehensive answer to your question regarding the reporting of restricted reports, specifically in the context of the Department of Defense (DoD) in the United States. It is important to note that the information provided here is general and should be verified with the most current policies and procedures.
Restricted Reporting is a crucial mechanism within the DoD that allows adult victims of sexual assault to confidentially report the crime without triggering an immediate criminal investigation. This policy is designed to encourage victims to come forward and seek the support and services they need without fear of retaliation or unwanted disclosure of their identity.
### Who to Report to:
1. **Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC)**: The SARC is a critical point of contact for victims. They are specially trained to provide comprehensive services, including crisis intervention, referrals to medical and mental health services, and ongoing support throughout the process.

2. Special Assistant (SAPR VA): The SAPR VA is another designated individual who can receive restricted reports. They are responsible for ensuring that victims understand their rights and the process involved in reporting a sexual assault.

3. Healthcare Personnel: Healthcare providers within the military or affiliated civilian healthcare facilities are also authorized to receive restricted reports. They play a vital role in providing immediate medical care and in documenting the victim's condition, which can be crucial for future legal proceedings.

### The Process:
When a victim chooses to make a restricted report, they are entitled to the following:
- Confidential Healthcare: The victim can receive medical and mental health services without the information being disclosed to others without their consent.
- Advocacy Services: A SARC or SAPR VA can provide advocacy services, which include emotional support, assistance in navigating the reporting process, and help in accessing resources.
- Legal Advice: Legal assistance can be provided to help the victim understand the implications of reporting and the options available to them.

### Considerations:
- Confidentiality: The identity of the victim and the details of the assault are kept confidential, except as required by law or with the victim's consent.
- No Criminal Investigation: Initially, there is no criminal investigation triggered by a restricted report. This allows the victim time to heal and make an informed decision about whether to proceed with a formal investigation at a later time.
- Command Notification: While the victim's identity is protected, the command may be notified on a need-to-know basis to ensure the safety of the victim and to implement any necessary protective measures.

### Final Thoughts:
Restricted reporting is a critical tool in the fight against sexual assault within the military. It provides victims with a safe and supportive environment to report crimes, access necessary services, and make informed decisions about their next steps. It is essential for commanders, healthcare providers, and all military personnel to be aware of and respect the process to ensure its effectiveness.

**read more >>

DoD's Restricted (Confidential) Reporting Policy permits adult victims of sexual assault to report the crime to specified individuals (SARC, SAPR VA, or healthcare personnel) who can then ensure the victim receives healthcare (medical and mental health), advocacy services (from a SARC or SAPR VA), and legal advice ( ...read more >>