A senior bishop in the Church of England, John Perumbalath, the Bishop of Liverpool, has been accused of sexually assaulting and harassing two women.
The allegations, reported by Channel 4 News, claim that Perumbalath assaulted one woman multiple times between 2019 and 2023 while he was serving as a bishop in Essex.
The interim head of the Church, Stephen Cottrell, has faced accusations of a “cover-up” after it was revealed that he was aware of the allegations before Perumbalath was appointed Bishop of Liverpool.
One woman, who has not been named, described an incident in March 2019, where Perumbalath allegedly kissed her forcefully against her will during an away day. She said, “I tried to move away, but he was holding my head too tightly. I could feel his mouth pressing on mine.”
Another alleged incident took place in May 2022, where the woman claims Perumbalath touched her inappropriately after a hug. She also described an encounter in January 2023 at a chapel music event where he allegedly pressed his face against hers, whispered “I love you,” and then bit her neck.
Perumbalath has denied all allegations, stating, “I have consistently denied the allegations made against me by both complainants. I have complied with any investigation from the National Safeguarding Team, and the police investigation into the allegations in Ess*xdid not result in further action.”
The woman reported the incidents to the police, who conducted an investigation but did not bring charges due to insufficient evidence. She also reported the matter to the Church’s leadership, including Cottrell, who said that safeguarding guidelines were followed and no ongoing concerns were identified.
Another woman, one of the 31 female bishops in the Church of England, has also accused Perumbalath of sexual harassment, though her formal complaint was dismissed due to the time elapsed since the alleged incident.
Cottrell has faced prior criticism over his handling of a sexual abuse case during his time as Bishop of Chelmsford, where he reportedly allowed a priest to retain his position despite knowing the Church had barred him from working with children due to past abuse allegations.
