CPS considers ‘complex’ evidence over allegations of abuse at Deepcut barracks

“Complicated” evidence is being considered by prosecutors following an investigation into allegations of misconduct at an Army barracks where four soldiers died from gunshot wounds.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said it had received a dossier of evidence from Surrey Police “following an investigation into allegations of misconduct in the public office” relating to Deepcut Princess Royal Barracks in Surrey.

He added that he could not give a time frame for when the decision would be made.

Private Geoff Gray, 17, was found with two gunshot wounds to the head at Deepcut barracks in 2001, and a coroner ruled his death a suicide in 2019.

Privates Sean Benton, 20, Cheryl James, 18, and James Collinson, 17, also died of gunshot wounds at the base between 1995 and 2002, amid allegations of a culture of bullying and harassment.

In subsequent years, questions have been raised about what led to deaths in similar circumstances.

A review was conducted in 2006 and the government acknowledged that mistakes had been made.

He said there were shortcomings in current systems of care for young trainees and he was committed to improving conditions to ensure the welfare and safety of staff.

Surrey Police have been approached for comment.

A CPS spokesman said: “Following an investigation into allegations of misconduct in a public office we received a dossier of evidence from Surrey Police.

“We are carefully considering this complex material and cannot give a timeframe for when a decision will be made.”