A former Army Sergeant Major has been handed a three-year prison sentence for sexually assaulting a teenage soldier in a case that has drawn disturbing parallels with the historic Deepcut barracks scandal.
Mark Gammon, 47, was convicted at Bulford Military Court Centre for assaulting 18-year-old Gunner Jaysley Beck at Larkhill Barracks in Wiltshire. The court heard how Gammon exploited his position of authority to prey on the young soldier.
Predatory Behaviour and Abuse of Power
Gammon, who served as a Staff Sergeant Instructor, targeted Beck shortly after she joined the Royal Artillery in 2021. The prosecution detailed how he engaged in predatory behaviour that included:
- Inappropriate touching during training sessions
- Making sexually suggestive comments to the vulnerable recruit
- Exploiting his senior position to create opportunities for assault
Judge Advocate General Alan Large condemned Gammon's actions as a "gross breach of trust" that had caused significant psychological harm to the victim.
Victim Impact and Lasting Trauma
In a powerful victim impact statement read to the court, Beck described how the assault had shattered her confidence and damaged her military career. "I joined the army with dreams of serving my country, but his actions made me question everything," she stated.
The psychological toll included:
- Severe anxiety and depression
- Difficulty trusting authority figures
- Ongoing trauma affecting both personal and professional life
Echoes of Deepcut and Military Safeguarding Concerns
This case has reignited concerns about safeguarding vulnerable young soldiers, reminiscent of the Deepcut barracks scandal between 1995 and 2002 where four young recruits died in suspicious circumstances.
Military authorities now face renewed questions about:
- Protection mechanisms for junior personnel
- Reporting procedures for sexual misconduct
- Cultural attitudes toward women in the armed forces
An Army spokesperson stated: "We take any allegation of sexual misconduct extremely seriously and are committed to rooting out unacceptable behaviour."
Broader Implications for Military Justice
Gammon's conviction represents a significant moment for military justice, demonstrating that senior ranks are not immune to prosecution. The case highlights the ongoing challenges the British Army faces in addressing sexual misconduct within its ranks.
As part of his sentence, Gammon will also be placed on the sex offenders register indefinitely and has been dismissed from the military service.
