Former church official and his wife charged with multiple counts of s3xual assault

Friday, October 30, 2026 - A former church leader and his wife are facing serious s3xu@l offence charges following allegations involving one victim. Stephen Timmis, 68, and Janet Timmis, 61, both from Sheffield, United Kingdom, have each been charged with eight counts of rape in connection with alleged incidents of sexual abuse between May and September 2008.

At the time of the alleged offences, Stephen Timmis was serving as a church leader at the Crowded House Church in Sheffield. The couple have been granted bail and are expected to appear before Sheffield Magistrates’ Court on December 1.

South Yorkshire Police have appealed to former members of the church and anyone with relevant information to assist with their investigation.

Authorities have assured potential witnesses that appropriate support will be provided. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the police through their official online reporting platform.

The allegations have not been proven in court, and both defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.