Full Answer Section

However, despite these potential punishments, it’s absolutely truthful to say that many rape allegations in the military are “swept under the rug.” This is due to a complex interplay of factors:  

• Low Reporting Rates: Victims often fear retaliation, lack trust in the system, or experience shame and trauma, leading them to not report the assault.  
• Command Influence: Commanders have significant influence over investigations and prosecutions, and some may prioritize protecting the unit’s reputation over pursuing justice.  
• Lack of Independent Investigations: Investigations are often conducted within the chain of command, potentially leading to bias and conflicts of interest.
• Difficulty Proving Cases: Sexual assault cases can be challenging to prove, especially when there are no witnesses or physical evidence.
• Culture of Silence: A culture of silence and victim-blaming can discourage victims from coming forward and protect perpetrators.  

These factors contribute to a system where many cases are not properly investigated or prosecuted, and perpetrators are not held accountable. This not only harms individual victims but also undermines the military’s ability to maintain order and discipline.

There have been efforts to reform the system and address these issues, such as:

• Increased Reporting Options: Providing confidential reporting avenues and support services for victims.
• Independent Investigations: Establishing independent investigative bodies to reduce command influence.
• Improved Training: Educating service members on consent, bystander intervention, and the importance of reporting sexual assault.
• Prosecution Reforms: Streamlining the prosecution process and ensuring that cases are handled fairly and efficiently.  

However, significant challenges remain, and cultural change is needed to truly address the problem of sexual assault in the military.