What is the purpose of Restricted Reporting?

Restricted Reporting is designed to provide a confidential reporting option for victims of sexual assault. This approach allows individuals to report the incident without triggering a law enforcement investigation or notifying command, thereby giving victims control over how they choose to handle their situation. The emphasis on confidentiality encourages more victims to come forward, as they can seek support without fearing the potential consequences of a full investigation.

This option is crucial as it recognizes that many victims may hesitate to report assaults due to fear of retaliation or the desire for privacy, and it seeks to remove those barriers. By providing this avenue, the intent is to offer victims a safe space to disclose their experiences while availing themselves of available support services.

The other choices indicate different concepts that do not align with the principles of Restricted Reporting. Seeking immediate legal action, filing reports with law enforcement, or encouraging public disclosure would not respect the victim’s desire for confidentiality and control over their own situation. Thus, the focus on providing a confidential reporting mechanism remains the core purpose of Restricted Reporting.