As an Army leader, what are my responsibilities when a sexual assault occurs in my unit?
Army leaders play a key role in the response to sexual assault in the Army. These leaders include commanders, supervisors, law enforcement personnel, legal and social services, and health-care personnel. If you are in a position of authority: • Enforce the Army policy on sexual assault and make sure subordinates enforce it, too. • Treat each incident seriously by following the proper guidelines. The victim should never be blamed based on past history, nor should it be assumed that the victim instigated the incident. • Inform each party of the Victim’s Rights under AR 27-10 (1 mb). • Report the allegations to law enforcement for a thorough investigation. • Keep all information confidential and disclose information only to those who have an official need to know – it’s the right of the accuser and the accused. • Notify the chaplain if the victim wants pastoral counseling or assistance. • Ensure that the needs of the victim’s family are considered. • Make sure victims are aware of the mil