Former Lieutenant Commander in the Submarine Service arrested for sexual assault

At Jordans Solicitors we have reported and commented on a regular basis over the last 3 years in relation to allegations of the sexual abuse of both men and women in the Armed Forces, with particular reference to the Royal Navy and Submarine Service. 

It has now been reported in the media that a former Lieutenant Commander in the Submarine Service, John Cursiter, has been arrested and charged with the possession of an illegal substance, sexual assault and false imprisonment. 

It is reported that the charges relate to a drug fuelled assault on a junior rate, although no other details are available at the moment. It is also reported that he will face a court martial in relation to the allegations. 

In 2022 an internal inquiry was ordered in relation to misconduct and inappropriate behaviour in the Submarine Service. It was accepted in the subsequent report that a number of the incidents of inappropriate behaviour were caused by a culture in the service that permitted or normalised that behaviour. 

In late 2024, the Royal Navy said that it had investigated 28 separate matters which has led to the discharge of 21 individuals from the Navy, with four being reduced in rank and six facing disciplinary or administrative action.

In addition to allegations of sexual assault, it was also alleged that the survivors of abuse were discouraged by officers from reporting it and complaints of abuse were ignored. 

The investigation has however been criticised because it had not led to any charges of sexual assault. It is not known whether the arrest of Lieutenant Commander Cursiter has arisen out of this investigation.  

At Jordans Solicitors, we support the criminal prosecution of those in the Royal Navy who have sexually abused others in the service. We have successfully acted on behalf of personnel in the Armed Forces whom it is alleged were sexually abused. 

We have a long history of successfully pursuing claim relating to abuse in these and other types of institutions.

Compensation is a small step towards taking control of your life and getting the justice you deserve.

We understand how difficult it can be for you to talk about the abuse you have suffered. That’s why our specially trained abuse solicitors work closely alongside psychologists and barristers to support you both emotionally and legally.

If you want to discuss the options that are open to you, please contact our specialist Abuse Team at Jordans Solicitors.