Ex-Sergeant Jailed for Sexual Assault of Soldier Linked to Army's Failings

Warrant Officer Michael Webber, a former British Army sergeant major, was sentenced to six months in prison for sexually assaulting 19-year-old Royal Artillery Gunner Jaysley Beck during a work event in July 2021. Beck reported the assault to her superiors, but the Army's inadequate response and failure to take appropriate action were found to have contributed to her suicide five months later, as determined by an inquest. Webber had pleaded guilty to the assault, which involved him pinning down Beck and attempting to kiss her despite her clear objections. Judge Advocate General Alan Large stated the seriousness of the offense required immediate custody, while Major General Jon Swift apologized for the Army's mishandling of the complaint. Beck's mother expressed deep sorrow and frustration over the lack of justice and the Army's failure to protect her daughter. Efforts are underway within the Army to improve how complaints are handled to prevent similar tragedies in the future.