Preventing Sexual Assault in the Military

We were not able to include the fuller story in the print version because of space limitations; this version includes more details.

Sexual assault is the most underreported crime in the military, as well as in general society. Approximately 80 percent of sexual assaults are committed by someone known to the victim.

I am the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Officer with the Minnesota Sexual Assault Prevention and Response office, which has focused on prevention efforts and victim advocacy since 2005. Particularly through the National Guard, we provide direct services to veterans who have experienced unwanted sexual contact.

According to a review of all states, territories, and the District of Columbia, the National Guard received 840 sexual assault reports in 2023. An estimated 1 out of 4 people report sexual assault, which is improved from previous years.

In 2019, the MNNG partnered with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) to conduct all investigations of sexual assault involving MNNG victims and offenders. The BCA provides investigative services to solve these crimes alongside other criminal justice agencies. This partnership has standardized the quality of investigations, and cut investigation timelines in half. Among the conversations we host year-round is a quarterly webinar series to provide members of the MNNG with information about dynamics of sexual assault and tools for risk reduction and prevention.

In 2021, President Biden asked the Secretary of Defense to conduct an investigation of sexual assault in the military and assess the military’s response. At the close of an Independent Review Commission investigation, 82 recommendations for improvement were put forward to Congress — all of which were approved.

These changes include increasing full-time dedicated personnel to enhance training and educational requirements. In 2022, Minnesota’s full-time staffing positions nearly doubled. In addition, the National Guard launched the Integrated Primary Prevention Workforce, which aims to reduce the prevalence of harmful behaviors in the military. The goal is to identify risks and protective factors in order to create healthier climates.

We talk about consent using the Planned Parenthood acronym FRIES:

• Freely given: Consent should be given without pressure, manipulation, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Reversible: Consent can be revoked at any time, even if it’s been given before.
• Informed: Consent is only valid if all parties are fully aware of what they are agreeing to.
• Enthusiastic: Both parties should want to do what they consent to.
• Specific: Saying yes to one thing doesn’t mean you’ve said yes to other things.

Victim advocates — staff and volunteer — are available 24/7 to connect with survivors of sexual assault.

Providing support to a friend or loved one impacted by sexual assault should always start with believing. Other support includes remaining free of judgment or blame, being a patient listening ear, and respecting their choices. Validate emotions as an understandable response to the assault.

MNNG SAPR 24/7 Helpline: 888-282-4858
Department of Defense Safe Helpline: 877-995-5247
tinyurl.com/MNVictimServiceProviders