Pastor Charged in Drowning Death During Backyard Baptism Ceremony

A British pastor has been charged with gross negligence manslaughter following the drowning of a 61-year-old man during a baptism ceremony held at a private home in Birmingham nearly three years ago (Micah 6:8).

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) stated there was “sufficient evidence” to bring the case to court, emphasizing the public interest in pursuing criminal proceedings (Proverbs 31:8-9).

The victim, Robert Smith, drowned in a backyard kiddie pool during the ceremony organized by Bartley’s Life Changing Ministries, which was livestreamed on social media.

Smith, a grandfather of seven children and a long-time resident of the United Kingdom, had worked as a barber in London for decades.

Bartley, 48, is set to appear in Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on May 14, where the case will proceed. The prosecution will present evidence related to the incident.

The incident has raised concerns about the safety and oversight of religious events, particularly those involving vulnerable individuals. The legal process will determine the extent of Bartley’s accountability.

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