What does restricted reporting allow a soldier to do?

Restricted reporting is a confidential process that allows a soldier who has experienced a sexual assault to disclose the details of the incident without triggering an official investigation. This means that the soldier can seek support, such as counseling and medical care, while maintaining privacy and control over how and when to report the assault formally. The intention behind this option is to provide a safer environment for survivors to seek help without fear that their situation will lead to immediate legal ramifications or repercussions.

This confidential approach is critical because it helps to encourage individuals to come forward and access necessary support services without feeling pressured into a formal legal process that they may not be ready to engage in. It acknowledges the complexity of healing and the varying needs of survivors while ensuring that they still have avenues to address their situation on their own terms.