Thinking Anglicans

Chichester sexual abuse: two arrests

Updated again on Friday

A retired bishop and a 67 year old retired priest were arrested by Sussex Police today in relation to allegations of sexual abuse. The Church of England issued this statement this morning.

Statement from the Rt Revd Paul Butler, Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham, Chair of the Churches National Safeguarding Committee
13 November 2012

The Rt Revd Paul Butler, Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham, Chair of the Churches National Safeguarding Committee said:

“We can confirm that police today arrested a retired Bishop and a 67 year old retired priest in relation to allegations of sexual abuse. The church has been working closely with Sussex police throughout this investigation and the full statement can be read here.

The Church of England takes any allegations of abuse very seriously and is committed to being a safe place for all. To this end we have robust procedures and policies in place. But we can never be complacent. We would like to urge any victims or those with information to feel free to come forward knowing that they will be listened to in confidence.

We have also put support systems in place for all those involved with today’s arrests. Should anyone have further information or need to discuss the personal impact of this news the Church has worked with the NSPCC to set up a confidential helpline no. 0800 389 5344. Although we cannot comment on this case any further at the moment, lessons must be learnt and it is our mission that all our churches are places of safety and joy, of righteousness and justice.”

Although neither the Church nor the police gave the names of those arrested, the media have not been so reticent.

Guardian Robert Booth Retired bishop Peter Ball arrested on suspicion of child sex offences

Independent Tom Pugh Retired bishop Peter Ball held in child sex abuse investigation

Telegraph John Bingham Former Church of England bishop held over sex abuse claims

BBC Former bishop and retired priest arrested over abuse claims

Mail Online Steve Nolan Retired Church of England bishop, 80, arrested by police over historic child sex abuse allegations at scandal-hit Diocese

Update Sussex Police have issued this update.

Guardian Robert Booth Bishop’s arrest part of broad inquiry into Chichester diocese child abuse

Friday update Guardian Robert Booth Police receive further abuse complaints against retired bishop

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