Sexual Abuse in US Military

Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel
(Washington, D.C.)

Sexual abuse complaints in the U.S. Armed Forces increased by 50 percent in 2013 amid a campaign aimed at encouraging victims to speak up, the Pentagon said on Thursday.

In Fiscal Year 2013, which ended last Sept. 30, a total of 5,061 sexual abuse complaints were received, compared to 3,374 cases the previous year.

“Sexual assault is a clear threat to the lives and the well-being of the women and men who serve our country in uniform. It destroys the bonds of trust and confidence that lie at the heart of our armed forces,” Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said at a press briefing about the report.

Reportedly, 73 percent of the accused are disciplined.