Pastor Faces Charges After Man Drowns During Baptism
Cheryl Bartley, a 48-year-old pastor based in Erdington, has been formally accused of gross negligence manslaughter following the death of Robert Smith, 61, during a baptism event in Birmingham. The incident occurred on 8 October 2023 at a residence on Slade Road, Erdington, where Smith drowned. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) confirmed the charge, which relates to Bartley’s responsibilities during the ceremony.
Bartley is scheduled to appear at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on 14 May. The CPS’s special crime division, led by Malcolm McHaffie, stated that the investigation was conducted in partnership with West Midlands Police. McHaffie emphasized the ongoing nature of the legal process, stating,
“We remind all concerned that criminal proceedings against this defendant are active and that she has the right to a fair trial.” “It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”
The case highlights the scrutiny surrounding religious practices, particularly baptism, which involves submerging individuals in water. Smith, from Brixton, London, was among those participating in the ritual. The CPS’s decision to pursue charges underscores the gravity of the incident and the role of oversight in such events.
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