The director of an evangelical church in Hemel Hempstead has been found guilty of multiple charges of historic sexual abuse, including rape.

61-year-old Michael Toms from Alexandra Road Congregational Church was found guilty at Chelmsford Crown Court of one count of rape, six counts of indecent assault, and two counts of indecency with a child.

He was found not guilty on two counts of indecent assault.

The crimes, which were committed against two girls, took place between 1979 and 1983. They began when the girls were between the ages of 12 and 13.  

Toms was aged between 15 and 19-years-old when the incidents occurred.

One of the charges relates to an assault which took place in a church. 

Despite the charges being brought in April 2024, he was appointed a director of Alexandra Road Congregational Church in February 2025.  

Toms, who is a father of three, is also listed as a deacon on the Alexandra Road Congregational Church’s website, although his profile has been removed. His wife also attends the church.

Toms, who had pleaded not guilty to the charges, was bailed ahead of sentencing on 30th September at Chelmsford Crown Court.

In a statement to Premier a spokesperson for Alexandra Road Congregational Church said the church 'is aware of the conviction of Mike Toms on serious sexual charges;  We acknowledge with sadness the dreadful impact of these events on all involved. We have taken advice from our safeguarding provider, and we will continue to do so, as well as following any instructions from the statutory authorities.'

Premier has contacted the Fellowship of Independent Evangelical Churches, of which the church is a member, for comment.