A woman has been charged with manslaughter following the tragic drowning of a man during a baptism ceremony in Birmingham.

The individual who lost his life, Robert Smith, aged 61 and originally from Brixton in south London, drowned while participating in the baptism, which occurred at a residence on Slade Road, Erdington, in 2023. The event, which featured a paddling pool set up in the backyard, was recorded and broadcast live, attended by a small group of around a dozen spectators.

Smith, who had lived in the UK for over 25 years, was a barber and a proud grandfather of seven.

Cheryl Bartley, aged 48, has been charged with gross negligence manslaughter for her involvement as a pastor during the baptism, as confirmed by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).

Emergency services were dispatched to the location on October 8, with the West Midlands ambulance service sending two vehicles, along with a paramedic officer and a critical care car from the Midlands air ambulance. Unfortunately, despite the efforts of medical personnel, Smith was pronounced dead at the scene.

Malcolm McHaffie, who leads the special crime division at the CPS, stated, “Our prosecution team has determined that there is adequate evidence to advance this case in court, and it is in the public interest to initiate criminal proceedings. We have collaborated closely with West Midlands police during their investigation.”

He also emphasized the importance of respecting the ongoing legal process, urging that “all parties involved should remember that the criminal proceedings against this defendant are active, and she is entitled to a fair trial. It is crucial to avoid any reporting, commentary, or online sharing of information that could potentially compromise these proceedings.”

Bartley is scheduled to appear before the Birmingham magistrates court on Thursday, May 14.