Summary
A former Army Sergeant Major, Michael Webber, has admitted to sexually assaulting a young female soldier, Jaysley Beck, who later took her own life. The Army's response to Beck's complaint about the assault was criticized, as it possibly contributed to her death. The Army has since apologized to Beck's family and pledged to enforce strict policies against sexual misconduct.
Key Facts
- Michael Webber admitted to sexually assaulting Jaysley Beck at a work event.
- Jaysley Beck, aged 19, filed a complaint against Webber but later died by suicide.
- An inquest found the Army's handling of Beck's complaint may have contributed to her death.
- Gunner Beck was advised by superiors not to report the assault, but she did so twice.
- The assault was initially recorded as "inappropriate behavior" rather than reported to police.
- Beck received over 4,600 harassing messages from another soldier, shortly after the assault.
- The Army has apologized and now has policies for zero tolerance toward sexual misconduct.
- Webber is awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty to the sexual assault charge.
