Army Investigation Finds Teenage Soldier’s Suicide Likely Linked to Sexual Harassment

A tragic incident involving a young female soldier in the Royal Artillery has come to light, shedding light on the persistent issue of sexual harassment within the military. An Army investigation report has revealed that Gunner Jaysley Beck, aged 19, is believed to have taken her own life in December 2021 after enduring relentless sexual harassment by one of her superiors at Larkhill Camp in Wiltshire.

The service inquiry report, which the BBC has had access to, describes an “intense period of unwelcome behavior,” which the report suggests was a significant factor in her tragic death.

The report highlights that the harassment by her immediate superior continued over a span of two months leading up to her demise. While the behavior ceased a week before her death, it had already taken a significant toll on her mental well-being.

Gunner Beck’s boss, whose identity remains undisclosed, reportedly desired a romantic relationship with her. However, she was in a committed relationship with her boyfriend and did not reciprocate her superior’s feelings.

The distressing report reveals that in October 2021, her boss sent her over 1,000 WhatsApp messages and voicemails, which escalated to more than 3,500 the following month. These messages were characterized by controlling behavior, including frequent checks to ensure she was alone and expressions of jealousy regarding her interactions with others.

Initially regarding her boss as a friend, Gunner Beck tried to be understanding. However, in the weeks leading up to her tragic death, she messaged him, stating, “I can’t handle it anymore. It’s weighing me down.”

Gunner Beck’s family, deeply affected by the ordeal she endured, has urged her to report her boss’s behavior. Yet, she was hesitant due to a prior experience with the Army’s handling of her complaint about a sexual assault by another superior several months before her death.

In response to this earlier incident, the report finds that the correct reporting process was not followed, leading to a minor sanction and a letter of apology to Gunner Beck from the individual responsible. This outcome may have influenced her decision not to report subsequent events of harassment.

The report identifies the prevalent issue of inappropriate sexual behavior within Larkhill Garrison among a significant minority of soldiers. It notes that measures to combat such behavior were introduced in November 2022, BBC Reported.

Gunner Beck’s family remains baffled by the report’s suggestion that family issues, including a bereavement, contributed to her tragic death. They firmly reject this assertion.

Despite the challenges they have faced, Gunner Beck’s family is determined to shine a light on the pervasive issue of sexual harassment within the military. They seek to ensure that her memory serves as a catalyst for change and increased awareness surrounding this critical issue.

Gunner Beck’s mother, Leighann McCready, courageously speaks out against the military’s lack of compassion during the difficult period following her daughter’s passing. She also expresses regret over her daughter’s career choice and emphasizes the need for change within the military to protect its members from harassment and assault.

The Army, in response to the tragic incident, states, “Our thoughts and sympathies remain with Gunner Jaysley-Louise Beck’s family and friends at this difficult time.” They refrain from further comment until after the inquest.

This heart-wrenching case underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to address and prevent sexual harassment within the military, ensuring the safety and well-being of all its members.