David Lammy challenges US trial of pilot accused of strangling woman in Cambridge
Concerns are being raised over the UK's legal process being bypassed in the US pilot's trial
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy is raising concerns with the US government about the trial of an American fighter pilot, Captain Jacob Wulfson, who avoided English law for allegedly strangling a woman in Cambridge.
Capt Wulfson, tried at a court martial on a US airbase, was convicted of strangulation and is serving a six-month sentence at RAF Lakenheath’s correctional facility.
He was acquitted of charges related to sexual assault and aggravated sexual contact.
The jury comprised eight US air force officers, with the judge being a US air force colonel.
Lammy cited the case as "extremely concerning," noting that his officials are collaborating across government to establish all facts.
Sarah Steele, the victim, expressed dissatisfaction over Cambridgeshire Constabulary's approach, stating they did not consult her about handling the case despite claims to the contrary.
She met Capt Wulfson via a dating app, later accusing him of non-consensual sex, drugging, and strangulation.
Downing Street previously cited concern over the case not reaching the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), while Cambridgeshire Constabulary mentioned the victim preferred the USAF to investigate.
Justice Secretary Lammy emphasized the government's commitment to reducing violence against women and girls.
Liberal Democrat justice spokeswoman Jess Brown-Fuller advocated for English justice for crimes on English soil, reflecting Steele’s desire for a clear prosecution framework.
The situation highlights complexities in legal jurisdiction over foreign military personnel stationed in the UK, which operates under a distinct US military judicial framework from British civilian courts.