A six-year criminal probe into allegations of abuse at Deepcut Barracks has failed to result in a single charge, according to prosecutors who say they have not found enough evidence to prosecute anyone over claims of physical and verbal abuse. The investigation focused on claims linked to the deaths of four young soldiers at the barracks between 1995 and 2002. Sean Benton, 20, Cheryl James, 18, James Collinson, 17, and Geoff Gray, 17, all died of gunshot wounds at Deepcut Barracks.
Inquests into three of the deaths heard first-hand accounts of mental, physical, and sexual abuse from former recruits, with His Honour Judge Peter Rook QC finding many witnesses at the inquest had been truthful. The coroner concluded a sergeant physically assaulted at least ten other trainees during his time as a Deepcut troop sergeant. An ex-Army sergeant, now in his 70s, was investigated over claims he abused a private.
I'm honestly lost for words, but as the years go on, this is the deceit I never seem to forget.
A group known as the Respirator Gang, who wore masks to hide their faces, was sighted in late night beatings. Only one former staff member has been interviewed under caution by police in the 31 years since the first death. A 2004 independent review by Nicholas Blake QC found a culture of 'ill-discipline, bullying and unofficial punishments' and systematic failure to handle complaints.
The exact circumstances of the gunshot deaths remain unclear. ' Yvonne Heath, mother of James Collinson, added, 'I'm aware that no charges have been brought and it comes as no surprise.
I'm aware that no charges have been brought and it comes as no surprise. Four dead recruits and no one is accountable and they wonder why we are cynical?