British Army soldier dismissed for groping female comrade’s bottom at party attended by Wills and Kate
A SOLDIER has been thrown out of the army for groping a fellow soldier’s bum at a party attended by Prince William and his wife Kate.
“Very drunk” Lance Corporal Shane Ritchie ran his hand down the woman’s back as he reached for a cigarette – and cupped her buttocks.
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She told his court-martial in Bulford, Wilts: “It was a firm touch, a grip.”
The harassment took place in March 2022 at a St Patrick’s Day party hosted by the Irish Guards at their barracks in Aldershot, Hants.
Kate, now Princess of Wales, handed out a shamrock.
Ritchie, 25, from Belfast denied sexual assault.
He was convicted, released and given a community directive.
Judge General Jane England called it “unsolicited sexual conduct while under the influence of alcohol”.
On damage control, defense attorney Matthew Bolt said: “LCpl Ritchie’s life has been shattered.
“He lost his job, his career and his good name.
“You could call that a moment of madness.
“He has two young children and a long-term partner … he’s now secured an apprenticeship as a sprayer.”
Ritchie was also ordered to do 60 hours of unpaid work.
