Cadet, 21, ‘took her own life after alleged affair with instructors’

Two senior soldiers at the Sandhurst military academy are being investigated after allegedly having affairs with a female officer cadet before she hanged herself in her room.

Olivia Perks, 21, was already a known suicide risk when the men embarked on affairs with her at the academy which was attended by Prince William and Prince Harry.

Both the colour sergeant and staff sergeant, who were significantly older than her, have been named as “interested parties” in her inquest after being investigated by top brass, the Daily Mail reports.

According to Sandhurst protocol, it is forbidden for staff at the world-famous academy to engage in any intimate or physical conduct with trainees.



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Both sergeants have been named as “interested parties” at the inquest

But, just days before Ms Perks took her own life she reportedly spent the night with the colour sergeant after he invited her to his bedroom following a drinking session.

The next morning she had to walk past all her colleagues in the parade she had missed, still wearing a ball gown from the previous night’s formal event.

A Sandhurst source told the newspaper: “Everyone else standing to attention and there was Olivia crossing the parade ground in front of her fellow cadets and the instructors. She told people afterwards how horrible it was.

“Olivia was in trouble for missing the parade but the commanders were much angrier with the colour sergeant.

“It was very stressful, particularly as she was convinced she was going to be dismissed from Sandhurst, which wasn’t the case.”

Both Miss Perks and the colour sergeant insisted nothing inappropriate happened and they both remained fully clothed.

However, he has since admitted kissing her but their relationship was reportedly more serious as evidence emerged that they often spent weekends together.

Just days later, Ms Perks was discovered hanged in her bedroom by her company sergeant major.



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Sandhurst prohibits affairs with colleagues

Senior officers may be asked by Miss Perks’ legal representatives why she was not monitored more closely, given that she was considered at serious risk of self-harm as sources claim they may have failed to follow official guidelines.

The Ministry of Defence confirmed last night that the Service Prosecuting Authority was considering charges against Sandhurst staff for failing to carry out their duties to protect Miss Perks.

An Army spokesman said: “A Royal Military Police investigation has concluded and the matter has been referred to the Service Prosecution Authority. It would be inappropriate to comment further.”

For emotional support, you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email [email protected], visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.

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