Preacher charged after man, 61, drowns during baptism | News UK

A preacher will appear in court after a man died during her baptism ceremony in Birmingham.

Pastor Cheryl Bartley, 48, has been charged with one count of gross negligence manslaughter after the death in her service.

Robert Smith, 61, from Brixton in south London, died from drowning at the service at the private address in Slade Road in 2023.

Malcolm McHaffie, Head of the Special Crime Division at the Crown Prosecution Service, said: ‘We have decided to prosecute Cheryl Bartley, 48, with one count of gross negligence manslaughter in relation to her role as a pastor during a baptism.

‘This follows the death of 61-year-old Robert Smith from Brixton in south London, who died from drowning at an address in Slade Road, Erdington on 8 October 2023.

‘Our prosecutors have worked to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court and that it is in the public interest to pursue criminal proceedings.

‘We have worked closely with West Midlands Police as it has carried out its investigation.

‘We remind all concerned that criminal proceedings against this defendant are active and that she has the right to a fair trial.’

Ms Bartley will appear at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 14 May.

West Midlands Ambulance Service said it was called about 1,40pm on Sunday to a medical emergency involving a man at a private address on Slade Road.

‘Staff administered advanced life support to him, but unfortunately, despite the best efforts of ambulance staff, it became clear that nothing more could be done to save him,’ a spokesperson said.

He was confirmed dead at the scene.

This is a breaking news story… More to follow…

MORE: What is the story of Easter Sunday and why is it special?

MORE: He is risen, indeed: Meet the ‘hot priests’ enticing people to church this Easter

MORE: Girl, 9, killed in car crash with two men arrested for drug driving in Birmingham