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4w ago

Military Reports Second Consecutive Decline in Sexual Assault Cases

New Pentagon data shows a 4% drop in 2024, driven by a sharp decrease in Army cases, while other branches saw increases.

FILE - The Pentagon is seen in this aerial view, in Washington, March 27, 2008. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak, File)
FILE - The Department of Defense logo is seen on the wall in the Press Briefing room at the Pentagon, Oct. 29, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Kevin Wolf, File)
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Overview

  • The U.S. military recorded 8,195 reported sexual assaults in 2024, a 4% decrease from 8,515 in 2023, marking the second year of decline after a decade of rising numbers.
  • The Army experienced a significant 13% drop in reported cases, while the Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps saw increases of 4.3%, 2.2%, and less than 1%, respectively.
  • Sexual harassment complaints rose slightly, with 3,014 cases in 2024 compared to 2,980 the previous year, predominantly filed by female service members.
  • The report reflects the first full year of independent prosecution reforms, which removed commanders from decision-making roles in sexual assault cases.
  • The Pentagon has allocated over $1 billion for prevention initiatives, hiring 1,400 personnel so far for a planned 2,500-strong prevention workforce, though hiring delays persist.