With updates to regulations and policies, can you consent while drinking alcohol?

2018-05-08T10:46:21-04:00

Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention
Discussion in our BLC this morning.
There is talk about changes that were made stating that you can in fact drink and still give consent as long as you are not completely drunk. Meaning I have 1 to 2 drinks, that you were not able to consent. Anything that shows this? I have checked AR 600-20 and some SHARP policies and have found no exact information on it.

(Update) Received more information from my SHARP instructor and he stated that it is actually unit based. A way that they can mitigate any issues that may resolve from alcohol.

If anyone has more information regarding this, would be awesome!

Response by SSG Robert Perrotto made May 8 at 2018 12:14 PM

2018-05-08T12:14:37-04:00

As a former SHARP advocate - the best advice I can tell you is this - if there is alcohol involved - don't do it - seriously - you absolutely cannot tell if 1 or 2 drinks do not effect your partners thinking process and in my experience that is whats important - did he/she have the werewithal to give consent. does not matter what you think, or feel - it is all about how the other felt at the time. Hope this helps and be responsible.

Response by CW3 Susan Burkholder made May 8 at 2018 1:15 PM

2018-05-08T13:15:52-04:00

SSG Perrotto gives excellent advice. My advice is usually a lot less sympathetic. I have never understood why some men spend an excessive amount of time trying to figure out if "no means yes." Just move on - it's not worth it. Today's dating rituals are not easier or harder than they were 30-40 years ago - just different. It really doesn't have to be a mystery. Don't take the chance.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made May 8 at 2018 9:04 PM

2018-05-08T21:04:13-04:00

That's great for the unit- but it won't wash with the regs and that is what will prosecute you, not the unit.