Archbishops Apologize to Abuse Victims as Bishop Charged with Child Rape

A bishop in England has been charged with two counts of rape involving a female under 16, following an allegation made to police. The offences are alleged to have taken place in Staffordshire between February 2000 and February 2001. The Church has expressed deep distress over the charges and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding.

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales issued a statement expressing profound awareness of the potential pain this news may cause. They offered an unreserved apology to those who have been hurt by abuse in the Church, emphasizing their dedication to protecting all members of their communities.

The Church maintains a zero-tolerance policy for abuse, both within its institutions and in wider society. They are cooperating fully with statutory authorities and focusing on providing pastoral support to ensure the safety and transparency of their mission.

Victims and survivors are invited to share their experiences, as the Church seeks to learn from and be guided by their stories. This commitment to listening and understanding is part of their ongoing effort to create safe and sanctuary-like environments for all.

The Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency assists in the continuous review and development of practices to ensure all communities are safe. This work is part of a broader effort to uphold the values of care and protection.

Staffordshire Police confirmed the charges against Bishop David James Oakley, 70, who is White British and resides in Desborough, Kettering. The arrest followed an allegation made to police in September 2025. The Church remains resolute in its mission to serve and protect its communities. (Proverbs 31:8-9)

The Church’s response reflects a commitment to justice and the well-being of all individuals, recognizing the importance of accountability and the need for a safe environment. (Micah 6:8)

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