The Air Force has instituted avenues for reporting sexual assault in the form of Restricted and Unrestricted Reporting. Restricted Reporting allows a victim to report a Sexual Assault without triggering an investigation. It is intended to give the victim (survivor) time and control over the release of their information. Further, it also empowers the survivor to make an informed decision about participating in the criminal process.
Unrestricted Reporting is any report of sexual assault made through normal reporting channels (for example: reports to chain of command, security forces, and/or Air Force Office of Investigation).
Restricted Reporting is available to active duty military, Coast Guard, Reservist performing federal training, members of the National Guard under Title 10 status, and AF civilian employees. Restricted reporting is also available to family members age 18 years and older.
Independent Reporting is an assault reported by someone other than the victim.