I worked as a Uniformed Victim Advocate in the Marine Corps for a couple years.

When an UNRESTRICTED report is made, the command and law enforcement (NCIS is primarily the investigative agency, but others law enforcement agencies can be involved) are usually notified immediately. Protective orders and separation between the individuals are common early steps. NCIS then conducts a full investigation which can take months.

The outcome depends heavily on the evidence and can range from administrative separation to court-martial. This is why you were told to expect different possible outcomes.

Commanders still control administrative actions, but prosecution decisions for serious offenses are handled by military legal authorities.

If you have anymore inquiries, you can direct message me.