WASHINGTON — Recent data from the Pentagon reveals a decrease in reported sexual assaults at U.S. military service academies for the second consecutive year, indicating a significant change from the disturbing rise seen two years earlier that prompted extensive reviews and leadership changes.
This drop in reported incidents coincides with a noticeable decline in the number of students indicating through anonymous surveys that they faced unwanted sexual contact during the previous academic year, which concluded in the spring.
Despite the positive trend, defense officials caution that the figures remain concerning and emphasize that much work remains to address the issue effectively. According to the biennial survey, roughly 13% of female cadets reported experiencing unwanted sexual contact in 2024, a decrease from over 21% in 2022. For male students, reported incidents declined from 4.4% to 3.6%.
The reported cases align with existing patterns where alleged perpetrators are typically other academy students who are often acquainted with the victims. Many of these incidents occur during non-duty hours, particularly on weekends and holidays, and alcohol consumption continues to be a significant contributing factor.
Beth Foster, the executive director of the Pentagon’s force resiliency office, expressed optimism about the new data, stating that while progress is evident, “the prevalence of sexual assault and harassment is still far too high.” She reiterated that while the data points to a challenging problem for all involved, it is one that can be addressed effectively.
Participation in the survey was notably high, with 88% of students responding. However, defense officials expressed concern that an estimated 783 students reported experiencing unwanted sexual contact, yet only a small fraction of those incidents were officially reported.
Leadership within the U.S. military and defense sectors is actively promoting enhancements to programs, leadership training, and staffing to encourage victims to come forward and ensure that offenders are held accountable.
This year, preliminary data has been published earlier than in previous years, with a complete report expected in February. The early release aims to provide more timely information to school leadership as they implement necessary changes.
However, the situation may shift with the impending leadership changes within the Pentagon. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is set to depart in January when a new administration takes office. The incoming leadership under President-elect Donald Trump and his nomination for Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, has committed to dismantling “woke” policies promoting diversity and equity. The potential effects of these changes on sexual assault prevention efforts remain uncertain.
Hegseth has faced accusations of sexual assault, which he denies, but he has acknowledged making a settlement payment related to the claims.
Many have pointed out that pressure from Austin encouraged academy leaders to address these issues more directly, leading to changes in leadership training and a stronger focus on preventing sexual assaults.
Reported sexual assaults at the academies are often cataloged in a convoluted manner; officials tend to assess assaults reported during the academic year while overlooking incidents that may be reported post-graduation. In total, there were 106 reported assaults for the 2024 school year, down from 137 the prior year and 170 in 2022. Each academy saw a decline in reported assaults as well.
At the U.S. Naval Academy, 47 assaults were reported, a slight reduction from 49. The Air Force Academy recorded 34 incidents, decreasing from 45, and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point reported 25 assaults compared to 43 the year before. Additionally, eight students disclosed assaults that occurred prior to their enrollment.
For years, military branches and academies have struggled to curtail sexual assault and harassment, implementing numerous prevention and treatment initiatives. Despite extensive research and program expansions, the number of incidents has previously increased. A renewed focus in recent years has led to some improvements and staffing increases, although service members still express concerns regarding the relevance and engagement level of training materials and programs aimed at combating these issues.
