A pastor has been charged with gross negligence manslaughter in connection with the drowning death of a man during a baptism ceremony. Cheryl Bartley, 48, of Life Changing Ministries, was charged in relation to the death of Robert Smith, 61, who drowned in a kiddie pool during a baptism at a private home in Birmingham, England, on October 8, 2023. Bartley is scheduled to appear in Birmingham Magistrates' Court on May 14, 2024.
Core Facts & Immediate Action
Bartley was charged after prosecutors determined there was sufficient evidence to proceed with criminal proceedings. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) stated that the case was in the public interest, emphasizing the need for a fair trial without prejudicial reporting. Smith, originally from Jamaica and a resident of Brixton, London, was pronounced dead at the scene after emergency services administered advanced life support.
Deeper Dive & Context
Background of the Incident
The baptism was reportedly livestreamed on Facebook, and Bartley allegedly posted a video claiming Smith was “dancing with Jesus” after his death. Smith, who had been baptized as a teenager, sought a second ceremony to become a “born-again believer.”
Legal and Procedural Context
The CPS, working closely with West Midlands Police, emphasized the importance of avoiding online commentary that could prejudice the ongoing proceedings. Malcolm McHaffie, Head of the CPS’s Special Crime Division, reiterated the need for a fair trial and the public interest in pursuing the case.
Family and Community Impact
Smith, a barber, had seven grandchildren and was expecting an eighth. His family’s perspective was not detailed in the available reports, but his background as a long-time UK resident was noted.
Religious and Safety Considerations
The incident has raised questions about the safety protocols during religious ceremonies, particularly baptisms involving water immersion. No official statements from religious or safety organizations were included in the reports.