Based on recommendations from the Secretary of Defense Independent Review Commission (IRC) on Sexual Assault in the Military, the Army is restructuring the Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP) program in fiscal year 2023.
The new structure will realign the reporting chain for sexual assault response coordinators (SARCs) and victim advocates (VAs). SHARP program officials will now report to the senior commander.
This change will provide optimal victim assistance and reporting opportunities to service members, expert support to commanders and the oversight needed to appropriately execute the SHARP program’s mission.
With a framework directed by the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD), the future model provides for an installation-based response program.