Sexual assault is a criminal offense. It includes rape, forcible sodomy (oral or anal sex), and other unwanted sexual contact that is aggravated, abusive, or wrongful (to include unwanted and inappropriate sexual contact), or attempts to commit these acts. Nurturing a culture in the maritime industry free of sexual assault (and other prohibited behaviors) starts with each individual. The goal of Military Sealift Command's SAPR Program is to eliminate sexual assault within the command and to assist sailors, ashore and afloat staff worldwide affected by this horrendous crime. Incidents of sexual assault impact mission readiness, core values and are punishable under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) and other federal and local civilian laws.
Military: The DoD definition of sexual assault: Intentional sexual contact, characterized by use of force, threats, intimidation abuse of authority, or when the victim does not or cannot consent.
Civilian: Sexual battery is intentional and offensive sexual contact and intercourse with a person who has not given or is incapable of giving consent. It is a sex crime that is considered a form of forced sexual contact. The force used can be physical or emotional (e.g. threat, intimidation, pressure, coercion).
"Consent" means words or overt acts indicating a freely given agreement to the sexual contact at issue by a competent person. Lack of verbal or physical resistance or submission resulting from the use of force, threat of force, or placing another person in fear does not constitute consent.
What is SAPR?
The Sexual Assault Prevention & Response (SAPR) program is a victim centrix program that offers crisis intervention for sexual assault victims, education, awareness, and comprehensive training. The intervention portion of the program is designed to support victims and their families as they deal with the many issues following sexual assault trauma.
What reporting options do I have?
Every victim of sexual assault has reporting options:
Unrestricted reporting offers the most services and safety measures. A victim can report their sexual assault and receive:
. Advocacy, medical treatment, and counseling
. Support from the command
. An official law enforcement investigation and protection orders
. Legal assistance (eligible personnel only)
. Expedited transfers (military) - Safety move (CIVMARS)
Restricted reporting offers more time to make a decision about reporting. A victim can confidentially report and receive:
. Advocacy, medical treatment and counseling
. NO command involvement
. NO law enforcement involvement
***To receive a Restricted Report ONLY report to the:
. MSC SAPR Program Manager
. Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC)
. Uniformed or Civilian Victim Advocate (VA)
Sexual assault is a criminal offense. The Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) is the only agency authorized to conduct a criminal investigation aboard Naval vessels. To report to NCIS directly please call 1-877-579-3648.
