- Army colonel Samantha Shepherd has been cleared of failing to properly handle sexual abuse allegations made by 19-year-old Gunner Jaysley Beck, after the Crown concluded there was insufficient evidence to safely convict her.
- Gunner Beck took her own life in December 2021 after being sexually assaulted by former senior non-commissioned officer Michael Webber, who was jailed for six months in 2025 after pleading guilty.
- An earlier inquest into Gunner Beck's death established that the assault and the military's subsequent failure to take appropriate action had contributed more than minimally to her death.
- Colonel Shepherd had faced a court martial at Catterick Garrison accused of misreporting details of the assault to the regiment's adjutant, but was acquitted on the directions of Assistant Judge Advocate General Edward Legard.
- Major James Hook faced the court martial alongside Colonel Shepherd over allegations that he failed to treat Gunner Beck's disclosures with appropriate seriousness, and his trial continues.
- If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI) or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.
- If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you.
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