Laughlin’s sexual assault prevention and response program: What is available to you?

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman David Phaff
  • 47 Flying Training Wing public affairs

Sexual assault is a pervasive issue in our society, and unfortunately, the military is not immune to this problem. To combat this issue, the Air Force has implemented the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) program. The (SAPR) program is designed to provide support and resources to those who have been victims of sexual assault, as well as educate the military community on how to prevent sexual assault from occurring. At Laughlin Air Force Base, there are a variety of (SAPR) resources available to Air Force members.

 

One of the essential (SAPR) resources available at Laughlin Air Force Base is the (SAPR) office. The (SAPR) office is staffed by trained professionals who can provide confidential support and assistance to those who have been affected by sexual assault. This office can provide various services, including crisis intervention, medical care, counseling, and legal assistance.

 

“The (SAPR) office is charged with being the point of coordination and information for available resources. We provide information to clients about the available resources,” said Tiffany Anderson, 47th Flying Training Wing sexual assault response coordinator. “We work closely with the chaplain, Military and Family life Counseling, Behavioral Health, Val Verde Regional Medical Center, Office of Special Investigations, legal, and the command team to ensure the victim/survivor receives all the help they want/need.”

 

In addition to the (SAPR) office, Laughlin Air Force Base also has a 24/7 SAPR hotline. This hotline can be used to report sexual assault or seek assistance for those who have been affected by sexual assault. The hotline is staffed by trained professionals who can provide immediate assistance and support.

 

“If someone wishes to file a report of sexual assault, they can contact the Laughlin (SAPR) Hotline at 830-298-(SARC) (7272),” said Anderson. “A victim advocate will meet with the individual and review their reporting options and what resources are available to them. If someone is not currently located at Laughlin, they can text or chat the 24/7 DoD Safe Helpline (877) 995-5247 to discuss options and find local resources.”

 

Another valuable SAPR resource available at Laughlin Air Force Base is the Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC). The SARC is a trained professional who can provide information and support to victims of sexual assault. (The SARC) can also help victims navigate the reporting process and connect them with resources such as medical care and counseling.

 

“A person has 2 reporting options with the SAPR office. They have Restricted Reporting and Unrestricted Reporting,” said Anderson. “A restricted report allows a person the ability to get medical treatment to include a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam, legal advice from a Victim's Counsel, Advocacy services from the SAPR office, and behavioral health or chaplain to aid in their recovery, all without a law enforcement investigation into the incident and their identity stays confidential and is not released to the command. An Unrestricted Report allows the victim to receive all of the previously mentioned help and services. Additionally, they are eligible to request a military and civilian protective order and expedited transfer. However, this choice will trigger command notification and a law enforcement investigation. It is important to note that even with an unrestricted, the information is strictly controlled and is only given to those that need to know.”

 

Laughlin Air Force Base also has a variety of (SAPR) training programs available to Air Force members. These training programs are designed to educate the military community on how to prevent sexual assault from occurring, as well as how to recognize and report sexual assault when it does occur. Some of the training programs available at Laughlin Air Force Base include the (SAPR) Basic Advocate Training Course, the (SAPR) Advanced Advocate Training Course, and the (SAPR) Unit Training.

 

“The courses go over outreach and how to handle the diffident situations that you may encounter when helping individuals who may reach out for services, said Senior Airman Davis Kingston, 47th Comptroller Squadron sexual assault victim advocate. “They give you the information so you can help walk others through the processes and let them know all of their options.”

 

In addition to these resources, Laughlin Air Force Base has various community resources available to Air Force members. These resources include chaplains, mental health providers, and medical professionals who can provide support and assistance to those who have been affected by sexual assault.

 

“The Air Force is working to ensure the safety of all individuals on their installations by working tirelessly to implement the IRC recommendations, said Anderson, “Most notable is the implementation of the prevention workforce. The Prevention Workforce is building safer communities through primary prevention by increasing protective factors and reducing risk factors within military communities. Increasing protective factors by using evidenced-based prevention strategies will help decrease all types of interpersonal violence, including sexual assault.”

 

Sexual assault is a serious issue that affects members of the military community, and Laughlin Air Force Base is committed to providing resources and support to those who have been affected by sexual assault. If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual assault, you must know that resources are available to you. Contact the SAPR office, the SAPR hotline, or the (SARC) for confidential support and assistance. Remember, you are not alone, and there is help available.

 

“I want victims to know that they are not alone and that they do not need to suffer in silence, said Anderson. “We are available 24/7 to help you; coming in to speak with us does not mean they will have to file a report. Victims of sexual have privileged communication with credentialed members of the (SAPR) team. You can come in and speak with us to find out the options. There is no pressure to file a report. We are here to help!”