Evangelical priest to appear in court accused of sexual offences against 11 women in South Yorkshire
The Reverend Christopher Brain led the movement called the Nine O’Clock Service in Sheffield between 1986 and 1995.
South Yorkshire Police (SYP) confirmed he is facing a total of 34 charges in relation to 11 women and is due to appear in court next month.
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Hide AdThe charges relate to allegations of sexual offences committed against women who had joined the movement, the force said.
Brain, now 66, of Park Road, Wilmslow, Cheshire, is facing one count of rape and 33 counts of indecent assault, alleged to have been committed between 1981 and 1995.
Officers said he has been summonsed to attend Sheffield Magistrates’ Court on March 18.
The Nine O’Clock Service was initially held at St Thomas’s Church, in the Crookes area of Sheffield, before moving to Ponds Forge sport complex in the city centre.
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Hide AdChief Superintendent Lindsey Butterfield, District Commander for Sheffield, said: “These charges follow a complex and wide-ranging investigation into events dating back 30 or more years.
“The police investigation was launched in 2020, when a number of victims came forward to report the allegations to us. Since this time, an investigation team has been working hard to build up a full picture of what is reported to have happened.
“We understand this is a concerning case and one which will have an impact upon individuals and communities. We will continue to provide appropriate support and updates to those involved.”
SYP said they are appealing for any further potential victims or witnesses, who may not yet have spoken to police, to come forward.
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Hide AdContact can be made via the force’s online live chat, online portal or by calling 101, quoting investigation number 14/174466/19. The online portal can be accessed at www.southyorks.police.uk/contact-us/report-something/
A woman previously arrested in connection to the case remains under investigation, the force said.