CPS statement on prosecution of former bishop

Statement from Jaswant Narwal of the Crown Prosecution Service, on the decision to charge Peter Ball, former Bishop of Gloucester, with sex offences:

"After a thorough and careful review, I have decided that Peter Ball should be prosecuted for misconduct in public office and two indecent assaults. It is alleged that he sexually abused a number of young males between 1977 and 1992.

"The misconduct alleged is that he misused his position and authority to manipulate and prevail upon others for his own sexual gratification. [...]

"In accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors, there is sufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction and it is in the public interest to prosecute."