A Birmingham court is set to hear the case of Cheryl Bartley, a 48-year-old pastor, facing a charge of gross negligence manslaughter. The case stems from a tragic incident during a baptism ceremony last October, a moment of spiritual significance turned devastating.
Robert Smith, a 61-year-old man from Brixton, south London, drowned on October 8th, 2023, at a private address on Slade Road in Erdington. The circumstances surrounding his death have led to a thorough investigation and ultimately, criminal charges against the pastor who was present.
Prosecutors have determined there is sufficient evidence to proceed with the case, believing it is in the public interest to pursue justice. The investigation, conducted in close collaboration with West Midlands Police, focused on the pastor’s role during the baptism and the level of care provided.
Emergency services were called to the address on Slade Road around 1:40 pm on the day of the incident. Paramedics immediately began advanced life support, fighting to save Mr. Smith’s life, but their efforts proved unsuccessful.
Despite the tireless work of the ambulance crew, Mr. Smith was pronounced dead at the scene. The details of the baptism ceremony and the events leading up to the drowning are expected to be central to the proceedings in court.
Ms. Bartley is scheduled to appear at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, May 14th. She has the right to a fair trial, and the legal process will unfold as the court seeks to determine the facts of this heartbreaking case.
