US military reports major spike in sex assaults

The US military has reported a major spike in sexual assaults despite years of efforts to address the problem. Figures show 20,500 instances of unwanted sexual contact occurred in 2018, up from 14,900 in 2016 which is the last time a survey was conducted.

Alcohol was involved in one third of cases, and most victims were female recruits ages 17 to 24. Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan has told Congress he plans to “criminalise” military sex assault.