Inspector General Robert P. Storch announced today that the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General released the "Review of the DoD’s Implementation of Expedited Transfer Policy Requirements."
The review examined whether the DoD effectively executed the requirements of the Expedited Transfer policy for the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) program in accordance with Federal law and DoD policies. The DoD's Expedited Transfer policy aims to assist victims of sexual assault in their recovery by providing an option to relocate to a new unit on their installation or to a new installation.
“SAPR is a crucial tool in ensuring the safety, well-being, and dignity of all individuals within the DoD community,” said IG Storch. “By adhering to established policies, Military Services can demonstrate their commitment to fostering a culture of respect, accountability, and fairness. Conversely, without proper oversight, the DoD cannot guarantee that the Expedited Transfer program is effectively assisting sexual assault survivors in their recovery.”
To accomplish its review, the OIG examined the FY 2023 Expedited Transfer data and interviewed DoD officials responsible for overseeing the SAPR program. The OIG determined that the Military Services did not effectively execute the requirements of the DoD’s Expedited Transfer policy for the SAPR program. Specifically, while the Military Services responded to almost 90 percent of transfer requests within the required time frame, they did not process more than half of those requests or record all required data in the Defense Sexual Assault Incident Database in accordance with the applicable timelines. In addition, the team found that the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO) did not provide sufficient oversight of all Expedited Transfer policy requirements.
The DoD OIG made three recommendations to the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, including revising its policy and process for completing approved Expedited Transfers within the required timeline.
The DoD OIG also made three recommendations to the Director of SAPRO, including strengthening oversight and the process for periodically reviewing data in the Defense Sexual Assault Incident Database.
The DoD OIG will continue monitoring DoD’s progress toward fully implementing all recommendations.