Pastor charged after man drowned during baptism

Birmingham Pastor Faces Manslaughter Charge Following Baptism Incident

Charges of gross negligence manslaughter have been brought against a local pastor following a tragic event during a baptism ceremony in Erdington, Birmingham. Robert Smith, a 61-year-old man from Brixton, London, lost his life on 8 October 2023 after drowning at an address on Slade Road.

Prosecution Details and Court Appearance

Cheryl Bartley, 48, of Erdington, is set to stand trial at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on 14 May. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) confirmed that she will face a single count of gross negligence manslaughter for her role in the incident.

“We remind all concerned that criminal proceedings against this defendant are active and that she has the right to a fair trial,” said Malcolm McHaffie, head of the CPS’s special crime division. “It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”

McHaffie noted that the CPS worked closely with West Midlands Police during the investigation. The case highlights the critical importance of safety protocols in religious rituals, as the event unfolded in a setting typically associated with spiritual renewal.

Stay updated with BBC Birmingham by following them on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.