Pentagon data show 3% spike in reports of sex assault
There was a three per cent increase in reports of sexual assaults in the U.S. military in 2019, according to statistics released by the Department of Defence.
The 2019 Annual Report on Sexual Assault in the Military found that in the fiscal year that ended Sept. 30, there were a total of 7,825 reports of sexual assault involving service members (as either victims or subjects) compared with 7,623 in 2018.
They include 6,236 service members who reported an incident of sexual assault; 652 reports from members for incidents that occurred prior to military service; as well as 937 reports from U.S. civilians and foreign nationals who alleged they were assaulted by a service member.
The overall uptick of three per cent shouldn’t be interpreted as an increase in sexual-assault prevalence among the activeduty force, because a prevalence survey was not conducted this year.
Traditionally, the survey is conducted once a year.
“Our work to eliminate sexual assault reflects our ongoing commitment to advance a culture of trust, respect and inclusion within the force,” Dr. Elizabeth Van Winkle, executive director of the Office of
Force Resiliency, said in a statement.
Pentagon officials will have to wait until next year to verify whether the uptick represents an increase in crimes, or just a higher number of people reporting on sexual assaults as a result of education efforts among service members.
“We generally view more reporting of the crime as a positive thing because it helps us connect victims to services,” said Dr. Nate Galbreath, acting director of the Department of Defence’s Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office, according to ABC News.
“I’m cautiously optimistic that it’s good news; I just can’t characterize it one way or another,” he added. The highest percentage change was reported in the air force, with a nine per cent increase over the previous year. The marine corps was the only service to show a decrease: six per cent over the previous year’s reporting.
“While the marine corps continues to eradicate these criminal behaviours from our ranks, provide victims with care and hold offenders accountable, senior marine leaders do not necessarily equate lower reports of sexual assault with lower instances of this offence,” cautioned Maj. Craig Thomas, a spokesperson for the marine corps’ manpower and reserve affairs department.
“Knowing that sexual assault is traditionally an under-reported crime and the 2018 annual report showed an increase in prevalence, the marine corps remains committed to improving its prevention methods and continuing to foster a climate and culture of dignity, respect and trust,” Thomas said.
“Marines are being provided knowledge, skills and tools to take action and prevent destructive and inappropriate behaviours that can lead to sexual assault,” he added. “Bottom line, marines have a fundamental right to live and work in a healthy environment free from sexual assault and harassment.”
Galbreath said some of the Pentagon’s prevention efforts focus on “preparing leaders at all levels to better reach our youngest service members who are most at risk.”