Senior English Bishop Arrested Amid Sexual Assault Allegations
London, UK – A prominent figure within the Church of England, Bishop Stephen Conway of Lincoln, has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault. The 68-year-old bishop was subsequently released on conditional bail as police continue their investigation into allegations of a man being sexually assaulted between 2018 and 2025.
High-Profile Arrest Shakes Ecclesiastical Community
The arrest sends ripples through the Church of England, bringing a senior clergyman under intense scrutiny. Lincolnshire Police confirmed the arrest of a 68-year-old man as part of an ongoing probe. While police did not name the individual, The Guardian, citing official sources, identified him as Bishop Stephen Conway.
The Diocese of Lincoln has confirmed that Bishop Conway has been suspended from his duties following the allegations, pending the outcome of the investigation.
Bishop Conway’s Distinguished Background
Stephen Conway’s career has been marked by significant appointments and influence. He was consecrated as the Bishop of Lincoln in 2023 and has been a member of the House of Lords, the upper house of the UK Parliament, since 2014. His roles have positioned him as a respected voice within both the religious and political spheres of the United Kingdom.
Broader Context of Clergy Abuse Allegations
This incident occurs against a backdrop of increasing awareness and scrutiny of sexual abuse within religious institutions globally. The Catholic Church, in particular, has faced numerous, sometimes decades-old, allegations of sexual abuse involving children and nuns in various countries, including the United States, France, Chile, Argentina, and South Africa. This ongoing investigation in the UK underscores the continued challenges religious organizations face in addressing such deeply sensitive and serious matters.
The police investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected as the case progresses.
