A pastor has been charged with gross negligence manslaughter after a man died during a paddling pool baptism in Birmingham.

Robert Smith, 61, from Brixton, was pronounced dead at the scene after emergency services were called to the ceremony in October 2023.

The Crown Prosecution Service has confirmed pastor Cheryl Bartley, of Life Changing Ministries, faces one count of manslaughter in connection with the incident.

Malcolm McHaffie, head of the CPS's special crime division, said they had worked closely with West Midlands Police as it carried out an investigation.

“Our prosecutors have worked to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court and that it is in the public interest to pursue criminal proceedings.

“We have worked closely with West Midlands Police as it has carried out its investigation.

“We remind all concerned that criminal proceedings against this defendant are active and that she has the right to a fair trial.

“It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”

Ms Bartley will appear at Birmingham Magistrates' Court on Thursday, 14 May.