DAF Form 3984: AFOSI Sexual Harassment Referral Form – The Department of the Air Force (DAF) maintains strict policies against sexual harassment to ensure a safe, professional environment for Airmen, Guardians, and civilians. When a formal sexual harassment complaint under the Military Equal Opportunity (MEO) program reaches the threshold of probable cause for a violation of Article 134, Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ)—specifically the offense of sexual harassment—commanders or servicing legal offices use DAF Form 3984 to refer the matter to the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI).
This article explains what DAF Form 3984 is, when and how it is used, its role in the broader sexual harassment response process, and how to access the official form.
What Is DAF Form 3984?
DAF Form 3984, officially titled AFOSI Sexual Harassment Case Referral Form, serves as the standardized tool for referring potential criminal sexual harassment cases from the independent investigation process (handled by Security Forces or designated independent investigators) to AFOSI for review and possible criminal investigation.
It ensures proper documentation and chain-of-custody when escalating cases that may warrant law enforcement involvement beyond the administrative or MEO investigation track.
Key Context from DAFI 71-101 (as of January 2025 update):
Security Forces (SF) acts as the DAF’s independent investigator for formal sexual harassment complaints under 10 U.S.C. § 1561. If the investigation uncovers information meeting probable cause for Article 134, UCMJ (Sexual Harassment), the commander and/or legal office refers the case to AFOSI using DAF Form 3984. AFOSI then reviews the referral in consultation with the servicing legal office and decides whether to open a criminal investigation.
AFOSI investigates sexual harassment when:
- It meets the criminal threshold under Article 134.
- It occurs as a secondary offense to another crime within AFOSI’s primary jurisdiction (e.g., sexual assault, stalking, or other serious misconduct).
If AFOSI declines to investigate, the Security Forces independent investigation continues. When AFOSI does investigate, it provides timely updates to installation Equal Opportunity offices to support statutory reporting requirements.
When Is DAF Form 3984 Used?
DAF Form 3984 applies in specific scenarios involving military members or civilians subject to the UCMJ:
- Formal MEO sexual harassment complaints investigated independently per DAFI 36-2710.
- Evidence emerges suggesting a probable cause violation of Article 134, UCMJ (Sexual Harassment).
- Cases where sexual harassment accompanies or is secondary to other offenses AFOSI typically handles (e.g., certain sex crimes under Article 120 or 120c, UCMJ).
Note: Not all sexual harassment allegations go to AFOSI. Many remain within the MEO/Equal Opportunity or command administrative process. The form specifically bridges the gap when a case crosses into potential criminal territory.
The Department of the Air Force maintains a zero-tolerance policy for sexual harassment and sexual assault, with processes designed to support victims while ensuring thorough, fair investigations.
How the Sexual Harassment Complaint Process Works in the Air Force?
- Initial Reporting — Service members can report sexual harassment through their chain of command, Equal Opportunity office, or via restricted/unrestricted options through the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) program for advocacy support.
- Formal Complaint — Formal complaints are documented (often using DAF Form 1587) and assigned to an independent investigator under DAFI 36-2710 and 10 U.S.C. § 1561.
- Independent Investigation — Security Forces or designated investigators conduct the inquiry.
- Referral Decision — If probable cause for a UCMJ violation (Article 134) develops, the case is referred to AFOSI via DAF Form 3984.
- AFOSI Review & Investigation — AFOSI evaluates the referral and may open a criminal investigation, especially if linked to other serious offenses.
- Updates & Resolution — AFOSI coordinates with EO offices for tracking and reporting. Outcomes can include administrative action, non-judicial punishment, court-martial, or other resolutions.
This process aligns with broader DAF efforts under DAFI 36-2710 (Equal Opportunity Program) and related instructions.
Download the Official DAF Form 3984
The current official version of the Air Force Office of Special Investigations Sexual Harassment Case Referral Form is available directly from the Department of the Air Force e-Publishing site:
→ Download DAF Form 3984 PDF: https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/saf_ig/form/daf3984/daf3984.pdf
Always use the official e-Publishing link for the most current version, as forms can be updated. Check the revision date on the PDF itself.
Related Forms You May Encounter:
- DAF Form 1587 (MEO Complaint documentation)
- AF Form 3985 (Interview Record)
- Various SAPR reporting forms (e.g., DD Form 2910 series)
Important Resources for Air Force Personnel
- DAF Equal Opportunity Program: Detailed guidance in DAFI 36-2710.
- AFOSI Official Site: Information on investigations.
- SAPR / Resilience.af.mil: Support for victims of sexual harassment and assault, including advocacy services.
- Unlawful Discrimination and Harassment Hotline: 24/7 reporting option.
- Military OneSource and installation EO offices for confidential guidance.
Commanders, legal personnel, EO practitioners, and investigators should consult the latest versions of DAFI 71-101 (Criminal Investigations) and DAFI 36-2710 for full procedural details. Policies continue to evolve to strengthen victim support and accountability.
Why This Process Matters?
Clear referral mechanisms like DAF Form 3984 help ensure serious allegations receive appropriate law enforcement scrutiny while protecting the rights of all parties. The Air Force and Space Force emphasize a culture of dignity and respect, with robust prevention, response, and accountability systems.
If you are a DAF member dealing with sexual harassment concerns, contact your installation EO office, SARC (Sexual Assault Response Coordinator), or chain of command promptly. Early reporting enables access to support services and proper handling of the case.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information based on publicly available Department of the Air Force publications as of 2025–2026. It is not legal advice. For official guidance, consult your servicing legal office, EO personnel, or the most current DAF instructions and forms.
Last updated information drawn from DAFI 71-101v1 (Jan 2025) and related DAF publications.
For the official form and policies, visit the Department of the Air Force e-Publishing portal and AF.mil Equal Opportunity pages.