Prosecutors said Beck told Colonel Shepherd and Major James Hook about alleged misconduct by Warrant Officer Michael Webber, and that the young soldier felt she might have been sexually assaulted.

Assistant Judge Advocate General Edward Legard directed the board to return a not guilty verdict for Shepherd due to insufficient evidence, with the ruling announced in the courtroom.

The case centers on Gunner Jaysley Beck’s report of an incident during a Royal Artillery training exercise in July 2021 and her subsequent death later that year.

Mental health support resources are emphasized, underscoring the seriousness of suicide prevention in the broader context.

The proceedings highlight ongoing scrutiny of how military officials handle sexual assault allegations and accountability of officers in duty of care for junior soldiers.

Beck’s mother, Leighann McCready, attended the hearing, illustrating the personal impact on Beck’s family.

McCready’s presence in the public gallery underscores the emotional toll of the case on relatives.

The board formally recorded not guilty verdicts for both defendants, effectively bringing the case to a close.

Webber has since left the Army and was jailed for six months in October on one count of sexual assault.

Beck’s case prompted ongoing military legal proceedings, with earlier coroner findings indicating her death was a suicide linked to Webber’s attack.

The report notes careful evidence review and the role of senior officers in handling Beck’s allegations, with no conviction following the court’s decision.

Col. Mae King, adjutant at 14 Regiment Royal Artillery, was involved in handling the information and is central to alleged failures to disclose touching or attempted touching.