News by email Donate

Suggestions

Revd-Gareth-Jones-main_article_image.jpg
St Mary the Virgin, Ilford
UK News

Priest "ashamed" for trying to bite paramedic during drunken night out

Revd Gareth Jones has been suspended from his position at St Mary's Church in Ilford following the incident when he also kicked a police officer in the face.

Wikimedia Commons

The 36-year-old was discovered by medical staff passed out in his clerical clothes in the Covent Garden area, two weeks ago.

Highbury Corner Magistrates Court heard how he kicked a paramedic twice in the leg on Charing Cross Road before punching him and trying to bite him.

It's understood the Anglican priest told two intervening police officers he was protected by diplomatic immunity under the authority of the Vatican.

He admitted two counts of assault and must now pay more than £1200 in fines and costs, including £200 in compensation to each of his victims.

Revd Gareth Jones admitted consuming three bottles of wine, a cocktail of spirits and numerous pints of beer, and said he was seeking help for alcoholism.

Wikimedia Commons

A spokesman for the diocese of Chelmsford said: "We are deeply shocked by Mr Jones' behaviour. We suspended him from his duties as soon as we were notified of the incident.

"Now that the case has been concluded, we have started proceedings under the terms of the Clergy Discipline Measure. We are holding all those affected by this serious incident in our prayers."

News you can believe in. Stand with Premier Christian News today.

Your gift today ensures that Premier Christian News can press forward in strength, reaching more people with biblical truth and shaping the future of Christian thought. It’s more than just a donation—it’s an investment in renewed minds and transformed lives. 

Without continued support, the ability to create and distribute resources that strengthen faith and equip the church will be compromised. But with your help, we can grow deeper, stand firmer, and shine brighter in the culture.

Your support today is critical.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate