Which individual is unable to receive a "Restricted" sexual assault report?

A "Restricted" sexual assault report allows victims to confidentially disclose the details of their experience without triggering an official investigation, offering them greater control over how to proceed after such a traumatic event. In this context, certain professionals are designated as confidential sources, which means disclosures to them do not require reporting to law enforcement or command.

The choice of a chaplain as unable to receive a "Restricted" report aligns with the role of chaplains in the military, who are considered confidential resources but also have specific limitations. While chaplains do provide spiritual and emotional support in a confidential setting, they are sometimes obligated to report to commanding officers in certain situations, especially if there is a perceived threat to an individual's safety or if there’s a possibility of ongoing harm. Therefore, the inability of a chaplain to receive "Restricted" reports is based on these necessary obligations that may conflict with the confidentiality guaranteed under "Restricted" reporting guidelines.

In contrast, medical officers, law enforcement officers, and victim advocates are trained to provide support and resources while keeping the disclosures within the confines of confidentiality that allows the victim to maintain control over how to take action. Understanding these differences is crucial in recognizing the various roles played by different professionals in the context of military sexual assault reporting