SARC in need of victim advocates

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jesse Lopez
  • 97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. - --  The victim advocates program continues to be the first line of response in the Air Force's battle against sexual assault and the Altus Air Force Base Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Coordinator is looking for volunteers to help fight the good fight.

Victim advocates are individuals who are trained by the sexual assault prevention and response coordinator to respond as support for sexual assault victims, helping them through the investigation and disposition of a sexual assault allegation.

"Volunteers go through 40 hours of sexual assault prevention and response training," said Rosie Rosalez, sexual assault victim advocate. "Their training consists of initial response, forensic exam procedures, reporting options, legal procedures, complex trauma and a variety of other assistance support."

Responsibilities include providing crisis intervention, referral and ongoing non-clinical support, as well as providing resources to assist victims in making informed decisions about their case.

"Assigned victim advocates meet with victims as soon as possible to provide information on the sexual assault response process and the options of unrestricted and restricted reporting," said Rosalez. "They inform victims of the availability of healthcare along with the possibility of allowing for a forensic medical examination and the collection of evidence. Victim advocates may accompany a victim, at the victim's request, during investigative and medical interviews, medical examinations, trial counsel and defense counsel."

There are 17 volunteers currently serving as victim advocates on Altus AFB and registration is open for more to attend the training.

"Only active duty military personnel, reserve or national guard personnel in active status and Department of Defense civilian employees may serve as victim advocates," said Rosalez. "Victim advocates are essential everywhere. They are, in many cases, the first responders to victims of sexual assault and this initial contact with victims is critical in assisting them."