British military school abuse allegations in Germany face legal hurdles

Two women have come forward with allegations of sexual abuse suffered decades ago at a British military school in Bünde, Germany. The victims, now in their 50s, state they were 10 years old when a staff member singled them out and coerced them into silence by threatening that reporting the abuse would cause their fathers to lose their military jobs.

A joint investigation by the Guardian and openDemocracy indicates that the alleged perpetrator cannot be prosecuted. Despite being a British citizen employed by the British army, investigations have been repeatedly halted due to incomplete employment records. The lack of a formal employment contract and insufficient proof regarding tax payments to the British crown have created legal obstacles to holding the individual accountable.