Each of us has the responsibility and moral obligation to confront and prevent any situation that could lead to a sexual harassment and sexual assault against our fellow Marines, applicants, and our poolees. Victims of sexual assault will be treated with sensitivity, dignity, and respect and their identity will be protected. Victim Advocates and chaplains are available 24/7 to assist. In addition, the wrongful distribution or broadcast of intimate images will not be tolerated. Members of this command will treat themselves and others with the utmost respect and report any violations immediately. Sexual harassment and sexual assault are a crime.

The 12th Marine Corps District Sexual Assault Prevention and Response program will provide confidential support and services to victims of sexual assault. These responsibilities were set forth in policies established by the HQMC SAPR program.

Sexual assault is a crime. It is defined as intentional sexual contact characterized by use of force, threats, intimidation, or abuse of authority, or when the victim does not or cannot consent. As used in this MCO 1752.5C, the term includes a broad category of sexual offenses consisting of the following specific UCMJ offenses: rape, sexual assault, aggravated sexual contact, abusive sexual contact, forcible sodomy, (forced oral or anal sex), or attempts to commit these offenses.

Sexual assault can occur without regard to gender, spousal relationship, or age of the victim. In the event of a sexual assault, a victim has the option of an unrestricted report, a process that an individual uses to disclose, without requesting confidentiality, or restricted reporting, that he or she is the victim of a sexual assault. Under these circumstances, the victim's report provided to healthcare personnel, the SARC, a SAPR VA, command authorities, other persons are reported to law enforcement and may be used to initiate the official investigative process.

Victims may also make a restricted report, which confidentially discloses an assault to specified individuals (i.e., SARC, SAPR VA, and healthcare personnel), and allows the victim to receive medical treatment including emergency care, counseling, and assignment of a SARC and SAPR VA, without triggering an official investigation.

If you are a victim of sexual assault, contact your Sexual Assault Response Coordinator or SAPR Victim Advocate immediately. We will ensure you receive prompt medical attention and will advise you of your options in reporting the assault. We assist victims in dealing with command, law enforcement, and medical personnel; if desired, we can be present during medical exams and court proceedings. If talking to a civilian is your preference, victim advocates, civilian members of the M&FS program, are also available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to provide crisis intervention and support for victims of sexual assault.

PLEASE BE SURE TO SPEAK TO A UNIFORMED VICTIM ADVOCATE OR VICTIM ADVOCATE BEFORE YOU CONTACT LAW ENFORCEMENT OR YOUR COMMAND. Once you inform law enforcement officials or a representative from your command, a restricted report is no longer an option.

For 24/7 victim advocate support call 619-846-6040.

DOD Safe Helpline: 1 877 995 5247