News by email Donate

Suggestions

Top Stories

Most Read

Popular Videos

money-cash-in-wallet-main_article_image.jpg
Chris Radburn/PA Wire
UK News

Treasurer forgiven for stealing church funds

80 year old Roger Ladbury, embezzled £96,000 whilst overseeing the accounts of Britford Church and the Chalke Valley Team Council during 2008 and 2017.

Following an investigation launched by Wiltshire Police and the Diocese two years ago, Mr Ladbury has confessed to the wrongful actions and has been issued with a police caution.

Under the conditions that he repay all of money he took, write a letter of apology to church members and hear the reports of victims to his crime, Mr Ladbury will not receive a prison sentence.

Revd Catherine Blundell, rector of the Chalke Valley Churches, said that while a Conditional Caution is unusual in a situation like this, under legal guidance and after much prayer, it had been accepted.

She said: "A conditional caution allows Roger to face the consequences of his actions, but avoids a lengthy court case or a possible prison sentence for an elderly man. This, we feel, allows us to demonstrate clear Christian values in the resolution of this matter."

She went on to say: "Now that the money has been repaid and Roger has confessed and apologised, we hope that as Churches we can move on from this.
"We do not want this one act to define us because as Churches we reach out into the communities we serve with generosity and love"

The Diocese of Salisbury has reassured people who give to the churches involved that they have 'thoroughly reviewed all procedures and processes' following this case 'to ensure a situation like this doesn't happen again'.

Stay up to date with the latest news stories from a Christian perspective. Sign up to our daily newsletter and receive more stories like this straight to your inbox every morning.

A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference

In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.

Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.

For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.

Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.

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