Jackie Speier: “I rise again for the 19th time to highlight the epidemic of rape and sexual assault in the military. By the military's…”

“I rise again for the 19th time to highlight the epidemic of rape and sexual assault in the military. By the military's own figures, 19,000 sexual assaults and rapes occur each year, but only 13 percent of the members of the military actually report them. Last week, I met with Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta, along with my colleagues, to discuss DOD's new report of data on rape and sexual assault in the military. The report shows a slight increase in reports of rape and assault but a startling decrease in the number of charges brought against reported perpetrators. With a decrease in charges came a significant decrease in prosecutions, in punishments, and in convictions. The numbers, frankly, are very discouraging. When I left the meeting, I was only pleased about one thing. Secretary Panetta and I agreed that the only way to solve this problem is with an increase in prosecutions. We agree on the results to be achieved, but for right now, we do not agree on the steps to achieve it. After our meeting, Secretary Panetta announced new initiatives, but DOD's three major proposals will not increase prosecutions, convictions, or punishments. Proposal one: elevate cases of rape and sexual assault to higher- ranking officials in the chain of command. Military commanders today told me that many are already having them handled by colonels and captains, yet this does not result in more prosecutions.…”