Cheryl Bartley, leader of Life Changing Ministries, has been charged with gross negligence manslaughter after 61-year-old Robert Smith drowned during a backyard baptism in Birmingham on Oct. 8, 2023. Emergency services pronounced Smith dead at about 1:30 p.m., and the ceremony was reportedly livestreamed on Facebook. The CPS said it worked closely with West Midlands Police and cautioned the public against sharing material that might prejudice the case. Bartley is due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates' Court on May 14.
Pastor Charged With Gross Negligence Manslaughter After Man Drowns During Backyard Baptism
Birmingham Magistrates' CourtCredit: Mike Kemp/In PIctures via Getty
A pastor in England has been charged with gross negligence manslaughter after a 61-year-old man drowned during a baptism last year, authorities say. Cheryl Bartley, leader of Life Changing Ministries, faces the charge in connection with the death of Robert Smith, who lost his life during a backyard baptism in Birmingham on Oct. 8, 2023.
What Happened
According to reports and statements from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), Smith — a London resident — was being baptized in a small inflatable pool at a private home when emergency services were called. He was pronounced dead at the scene at about 1:30 p.m. local time.
Allegations and Online Coverage
News outlets reported that the baptism was reportedly livestreamed on Facebook. After Smith's death, Bartley allegedly posted a video on social media in which she said she saw him "dancing with Jesus." These posts and livestreams are being considered as part of the wider investigation.
Legal Response
"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. He added that the CPS worked closely with West Midlands Police and urged the public to avoid sharing material that could prejudice the case.
Victim Background
Smith was originally from Jamaica and worked for many years as a barber in London. Reports say he had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and that the baptism was his second round of the ceremony. He is survived by family members, including seven grandchildren.
Next Steps
Bartley, 48, has been charged with gross negligence manslaughter and is due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates' Court on May 14. The CPS and West Midlands Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Smith's death. Life Changing Ministries and the magistrates' court were contacted for comment, according to media accounts.
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