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Gilmore v Archdeacon of Charing Cross

Court of Arches: April 2011 Clergy discipline – conduct unbecoming – sexual misconduct – penalty

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  11 August 2011

Ruth Arlow
Affiliation:
Barrister, Deputy Chancellor of the Dioceses of Chichester and Norwich
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Abstract

Type
Case Notes
Copyright
Copyright © Ecclesiastical Law Society 2011

The appellant appealed against the decision of, and the penalty imposed by, a clergy discipline tribunal for conduct unbecoming or inappropriate to the office and work of a clerk in holy orders. The appellant had provided overnight accommodation in the rectory for two servicemen attending a Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transexual Conference in London. The appellant had made indecent proposals of a sexual nature to the two servicemen and persisted in pressing his attentions on them when they had clearly indicated that his attentions were unwelcome. The following morning he entered the servicemen's bedroom and masturbated as they were engaged in sexual activity. While noting that the appellant did not pose a risk to vulnerable individuals, the court dismissed the appeal. The court observed the lack of contrition and remorse but acknowledged the brevity of the period over which the misconduct had taken place. The penalty of removal from office and a prohibition for two years was upheld. The transcript of the determination of the Court of Arches, dated May 2011, together with that of the first instance tribunal may be found at <http://www.ecclaw.co.uk/clergydiscipline.php>, accessed 16 June 2011. [RA]