World
Liverpool Bishop Steps Down Amid Sexual Assault Allegations
The Bishop of Liverpool, John Perumbalath, has announced his resignation amid allegations of sexual assault and harassment.
The development comes after Channel 4 News report revealed allegations by two women of “inappropriate behaviour” against Perumbalath.
In a statement, Perumbalath said, “A rush to judgement and my trial by media… has made my position untenable.” He added that he had decided to retire immediately to avoid a “long period of uncertainty” while the claims were further investigated.
“I do not wish this story to become a distraction for this incredible diocese and its people, whom it has been an honour and joy to serve,” Perumbalath said.
The bishop stated that since the allegations were made in 2023, he had “consistently maintained that I have not done anything wrong and continue to do so.” He also noted that a Church safeguarding team had investigated the allegations and found them “unsubstantiated,” and that the police had decided to take no further action.
Despite this, Perumbalath felt that the media had treated him as guilty, saying, “Media reports have treated me as guilty on all charges and treated these allegations as fact.”
The resignation comes at a time of intense scrutiny for the Church of England, following the resignation of Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby over failures in handling a serial abuse case.
The Liverpool diocese acknowledged Perumbalath’s decision, saying, “We continue working hard to support all those who have been affected by this story.”
The Bishop of Liverpool, John Perumbalath, has announced his resignation amid allegations of sexual assault and harassment.
The development followed a Channel 4 News report that two women had accused Perumbalath of “inappropriate behaviour”.
In a statement, Perumbalath said, “A rush to judgement and my trial by media… has made my position untenable.” He added that he had decided to retire immediately to avoid a “long period of uncertainty” while the claims were further investigated.
“I do not wish this story to become a distraction for this incredible diocese and its people, whom it has been an honour and joy to serve,” Perumbalath said.
The bishop stated that since the allegations were made in 2023, he had “consistently maintained that I have not done anything wrong and continue to do so.” He also noted that a Church safeguarding team had investigated the allegations and found them “unsubstantiated,” and that the police had decided to take no further action.
Despite this, Perumbalath felt that the media had treated him as guilty, saying, “Media reports have treated me as guilty on all charges and treated these allegations as fact.”
The resignation comes at a time of intense scrutiny for the Church of England, following the resignation of Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby over failures in handling a serial abuse case.
The Liverpool diocese acknowledged Perumbalath’s decision, saying, “We continue working hard to support all those who have been affected by this story.”
