Tragedy After A Cry For Help
A 19‑year‑old soldier who reported being sexually assaulted by a senior colleague died by suicide months later. Her family say she was failed by those she trusted to protect her.
What Happened During Training
In July 2021, Gunner Jaysley Beck, serving in the British Army, was on a training exercise when her superior, Michael Webber, allegedly pinned her down, tried to kiss her, and placed his hand between her legs. She reported the assault immediately—first to her captain, then up the chain of command—but was discouraged from taking the complaint further. The assault was never referred to the police at the time, even though Army policy required it.
The Aftermath And Her Death
Five months later, in December 2021, Jaysley was found dead in her barracks at Larkhill. An inquest in early 2025 concluded that the Army’s failure to treat her complaint as required had more than a minimal contribution to her decision to take her own life. The coroner stated that the complaint should have been reported to the police, not handled internally. There were also reports of ongoing harassment from other soldiers in the period after she made her complaint.
Admission And Accountability
Michael Webber, who was a senior non‑commissioned officer at the time of the assault, has since left the Army. He has now admitted—through a pre‑trial hearing—to one count of sexual assault over the incident involving Jaysley. Sentencing is scheduled for 31 October at a military court in Bulford. For Jaysley’s family, this admission represents long‑overdue acknowledgment, but nothing can restore the life that was lost.
Family Speaks Of Deep Betrayal
Jaysley’s mother, Leighann McCready, said that her daughter was not just let down by one person but by a system that ignored her pleas. She described how Jaysley hoped her complaint would bring justice, but instead, faced pressure to stay silent and was misled into believing her assault was “not that serious.” The lack of action and support left her feeling isolated and fearful.
Her family and legal advisers have stated that earlier intervention and proper handling of the complaint could have made a difference. They believe that if the Army had taken Jaysley seriously at the outset—reporting to police and offering meaningful support—her story might have ended differently.
A Call For Change In The Ranks
This case has reignited calls for reform in how the military handles allegations of sexual assault. Critics argue that hierarchy, internal culture, and inconsistent adherence to procedure leave vulnerable personnel exposed. Since Jaysley’s death, policy changes have been promised, including clearer guidance on reporting, support for victims, and zero tolerance of sexual misconduct.
Legacies Of Strength And Unanswered Questions
Jaysley’s parents have described her as courageous and determined. She joined the Army at just 16, hoping to serve, believing in a duty to serve. Her death has left a painful void, not only for her loved ones but for all those who hoped for a safer, more accountable military environment.
Her story is a stark reminder that procedures are meaningless without action, and that silence from those who should protect can carry a weight no one should bear alone.
