CPS considers Deepcut barracks misconduct evidence

The entrance to the barracks. A 30mph sign next to a green sign saying "Defence Logistic Support Training Group".Image source, PA Media
Image caption,

Five soldiers died at the Deepcut Barracks between 1995 and 2002

  • Published

"Complex" evidence is being considered by prosecutors following an investigation into allegations of misconduct at an army barracks where five soldiers died.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said it "received a file of evidence from Surrey Police" relating to Deepcut Barracks in Surrey.

It said it could not give a timeframe for when a decision would be made following the investigation into "misconduct in a public office".

The Ministry of Defence has been approached for a comment.

Privates Sean Benton, Cheryl James, Geoff Gray and James Collinson were all discovered with gunshot wounds between 1995 and 2002.

Soldier Anthony Bartlett was also found dead after a suspected overdose in July 2001.

Image source, NASA
Image caption,

Privates Sean Benton, Cheryl James, Geoff Gray and James Collinson died between 1995 and 2002 at Deepcut barracks

The Army previously insisted the four gunshot wound deaths at the Princess Royal Barracks were suicides, although the families disagreed.

In the years following the deaths at Deepcut, there was debate over what led to the four privates losing their lives, all in similar circumstances.

The MoD had previously said Pte Bartlett's case was investigated by the police and ruled to be an accidental death by the coroner.

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