A British Army sergeant has been handed a suspended prison sentence after being convicted of sexually assaulting a 19-year-old junior soldier who tragically took her own life just weeks following the incident.
Sergeant Michael Webber, 32, was found guilty of assaulting Gunner Jaysley Beck at Larkhill Camp in Wiltshire during an evening in November 2021. The court heard how Webber targeted the young soldier after an evening where alcohol had been consumed.
Disturbing Details Emerge During Trial
Bulford Military Court was presented with compelling evidence showing Webber had entered Beck's room uninvited and proceeded to sexually assault her. The prosecution detailed how the sergeant had initially claimed the encounter was consensual, a version of events the court ultimately rejected.
Jaysley Beck's family described the profound impact of the assault on their daughter, revealing she had become "withdrawn and anxious" in the weeks following the traumatic experience. The young soldier from Doncaster was found deceased in her room at Larkhill Camp on December 14, 2021.
Military Justice Delivered
Following a court-martial, Sergeant Webber received a nine-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months. Additionally, he was ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work and will be required to register as a sex offender for ten years.
The sentencing judge emphasised the breach of trust involved, noting Webber's position of authority over the young soldier and the vulnerability she experienced while stationed away from her family support network.
Family's Heartbreaking Statement
In an emotional victim impact statement, Jaysley's family remembered her as "a beautiful, kind and loving daughter, sister and granddaughter" whose life was cut tragically short. They spoke of their ongoing grief and the void left by her passing.
The case has raised serious questions about safeguarding procedures within military establishments and the support available to young soldiers experiencing trauma.
A British Army spokesperson stated: "We take the welfare of our personnel extremely seriously and have robust policies in place. Any allegations of inappropriate behaviour are investigated thoroughly."
