Who is Michael Webber? Ex-sergeant major Admits S*xual Assault Linked to Soldier’s Jaysley Beck Death

Former Army Sergeant Major Michael Webber admitted in court that he sexually assaulted 19-year-old Royal Artillery Gunner Jaysley Beck. The case has shocked the nation, not only because of the assault but also because Beck later took her own life after her complaint was allegedly ignored and covered up by Army bosses.

The Death of Jaysley Beck

On 15 December 2021, Beck was found dead in her room at Larkhill Camp, near Salisbury in Wiltshire. The inquest held in February 2025 revealed that she died by suicide shortly after reporting Webber’s assault.

During a social event in July 2021, Webber pinned her down, tried to kiss her, and touched her inappropriately. Beck pushed him away, left the room, and even slept in her car that night. She made two official complaints about his actions.

Instead of taking her complaint seriously, the Army gave Webber only a minor administrative action interview. Shockingly, less than a year later, in May 2022, he was promoted to Warrant Officer 1 (WO1), the highest rank for a non-commissioned officer in the Army.

Family’s Pain and Cover-Up Allegations

Beck’s mother, Leighann McCready, has spoken openly about her daughter’s suffering. She revealed how she had to fight to access her daughter’s room after her death. There, she discovered a letter Beck had kept, written by Webber himself.

In the letter, Webber admitted his behavior on the night of 12 July 2021 was “absolutely unacceptable.” However, he ended it with the words, “My door will always be open.” McCready said her daughter found the letter dismissive and hurtful.

After Friday’s guilty plea, McCready said her family felt some relief that Webber admitted his crime, but no legal outcome could bring back their “beautiful daughter.” She believes the Army failed Beck by refusing to treat her complaints seriously.

Their lawyer, Emma Norton, added: “If the Army had simply contacted the police after her first report, Jaysley would still be alive today.”

Army’s Apology and Promised Reforms

The Army faced heavy criticism during the inquest. Witnesses described a toxic culture of harassment at Larkhill, with female soldiers often subjected to inappropriate behavior.

After the ruling, Brigadier Melissa Emmett apologized on behalf of the Army. She admitted the Army failed Beck and promised “zero tolerance” policies for sexual misconduct. She also highlighted new measures to protect soldiers and rebuild trust.

Emmett said: “We should have done so much more to support and protect her. Jaysley was exactly the kind of soldier the Army needs. She was excelling at her job, kind, funny, and always putting others before herself.”

Michael Webber’s Future

Michael Webber has now left the Army. Following his guilty plea, he awaits sentencing at a later date. Campaigners say his case must serve as a warning that no soldier, regardless of rank, should escape accountability.

For Beck’s family, the plea is a step toward justice but also a painful reminder of a young life lost. They continue to demand stronger protections for women serving in the armed forces.