https://archive.ph/2024.07.17-173317...arge-2bf33730s
Former major general admits disgraceful conduct
A former major general who was tipped as the future head of the British Army has admitted “indecently” playing with a woman’s hair and kissing her while serving as an officer.
James Roddis, 52, a former deputy director of special forces, appeared at a court martial for the first time on Wednesday, having become the most senior officer in centuries to be charged with a sex offence.
His case was thought to have been set for trial, however on Wednesday he admitted to a lesser charge of disgraceful conduct of an indecent kind. He was
originally charged under section 3 of the Sexual Offences Act, which covers sexual assault by touching, following a Royal Military Police investigation.
Roddis, a married father of three, was until recently director of strategy at UK military’s Strategic Command, responsible for special forces units and other secretive intelligence-gathering and cyber units. Prior to this The Times understands he was deputy director of special forces.
Roddis attended Bulford Military Court, Wiltshire, on Wednesday via video for a plea and trial preparation hearing. Wearing a dark suit and tie, Roddis spoke only to confirm his name and admit disgraceful conduct of an indecent kind.…..
Roddis is understood to have left the army in recent months.
He has received the UK’s highest award for leadership in combat, Distinguished Service Order, and a mention in dispatches after serving in Afghanistan and Iraq. He was made an MBE in 2009 and earned a pair of Queen’s Commendations for Valuable Service in 2008 and 2017. He also founded the Army’s elite Specialised Infantry Brigade in 2017 and was one of the pallbearers who helped carry
Prince Philip’s coffin in 2021.
Roddis will be sentenced at the same court on September 5…..