The Department of Defense issued its Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Report on Sexual Assault in the Military, detailing data on sexual assault reports and updates on the department's preventative and supportive measures. The report, mandated by Congress, includes a summary of findings from the QuickCompass of Sexual Assault Response Personnel Survey, assessing the experiences of personnel engaged in prevention and response programs.
In the past fiscal year, 8,195 sexual assault reports were filed, marking a decrease of 320 from FY 2023. However, the Department noted the absence of a prevalence survey in FY 2024, limiting their ability to interpret this decline fully. It emphasized the promotion of reporting to ensure warfighters access care and accountability for offenders. The planned prevalence survey results will be included in the FY 2025 report.
Tim Dill, performing the duties of deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, emphasized the importance of a strong military environment: "As Secretary Hegseth has observed, 'the strength of our military is our unity and our shared purpose.' The Department owes our Service members a workplace with high standards and an environment that fosters trust, collaboration, and results."
The department maintains its dedication to the warrior ethos, promising zero tolerance for sexual violence, which undermines military cohesion and readiness. This focus is echoed by Dr. Nate Galbreath, director of the DoD Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office, who stated, "Countering sexual assault is vital to maintaining the high standards of our Military Services and strengthening our fighting force."
The full FY 2024 report and an accompanying fact sheet can be accessed on the Department of Defense website at https://www.sapr.mil/reports.
