A harrowing experience has been revealed by Dr Sarah Steele, a Cambridge academic who was assaulted by a US Air Force pilot last year. The researcher at the University of Cambridge waived her right to anonymity to share her account of being subjected to a 'character assassination' during her cross-examination at RAF Lakenheath in April, as part of Captain Jacob Wulfson's court martial.
The F-35 pilot from the 495th Fighter Squadron, based at the Suffolk airfield, was convicted by the US Air Force (USAF) of strangulation and received a sentence of six months' detention. He was also dismissed from the military. Dr Steele has spoken out about her concerns over the jurisdiction of the case, which was handled by the US Air Force, and feels that she was 'railroaded' by the USAF in the decision-making process.
The incident occurred after Dr Steele met Wulfson via a dating app, arranging to meet for the first time at his flat in Cambridge in December 2023. She reported feeling that 'something untoward' had happened the following day. While Wulfson was convicted of 'aggravated assault on family member or partner', he was acquitted of further charges including sexual assault and 'aggravated sexual contact'.
Dr Steele expressed her concern over the jurisdiction, which she believes was negotiated without her 'informed consent'. Cambridgeshire Police confirmed that Dr Steele had indicated her wish for the American authorities to continue the investigation. A USAF spokesperson noted that jurisdiction was governed by NATO legislation signed in 1951.
Justice Minister Jake Richards has acknowledged the seriousness of the case and the 'issues' surrounding military court systems. He told the BBC Radio 4 Today programme that he would be taking the matter back to the Ministry of Justice to ensure the details are thoroughly investigated. The USAF reiterated its commitment to working transparently with British partners to ensure the fair administration of justice.
Dr Steele's primary motivation for speaking out is to ensure that future victims can make informed decisions about the legal processes available to them, particularly regarding the American court martial system, which she feels lacks transparency and information for individuals navigating such traumatic experiences.