Pastor Charged With Manslaughter After Baptism Turns Deadly

A Birmingham pastor has been charged with gross negligence manslaughter following the death of a man who drowned during a baptism ceremony.

The charge stems from the death of 61-year-old Robert Smith, who died on October 8, 2023, at a property on Slade Road in the Erdington area, according to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). Smith, who was from Brixton in south London, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Cheryl Bartley, 48, has been charged in connection with the incident, which prosecutors say is linked to her role as a pastor overseeing the baptism.

Malcolm McHaffie, head of the CPS Special Crime Division, said there is sufficient evidence to bring the case before the courts and that pursuing charges is in the public interest. He added that prosecutors worked closely with West Midlands Police throughout the investigation.

McHaffie also emphasized that the case is now active, reminding the public that Bartley is entitled to a fair trial and urging against any reporting or online commentary that could prejudice the proceedings.

Bartley, who is from Erdington, is scheduled to appear at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on May 14.