Former Church leader and his wife charged with number of serious sex offences in Sheffield

The alleged offences happened in 2008

Author: Julie CastonPublished 29th Oct 2026

A former church leader and his wife have been charged with several counts of rape following a report of non-recent sexual abuse in Sheffield.

Stephen Timmis, aged 68, and Janet Timmis, aged 61, both of Psalter Lane, in the city, are each charged with eight counts of rape against one victim.

The charges are in connection with offences alleged to have taken place between May and September 2008, while Stephen Timmis was a church leader at the Crowded House Church, in Sheffield.

The pair have been bailed to appear at Sheffield Magistrates' Court on 1st December 2026.

South Yorkshire Police said:

"Our enquiries have led us to believe there may be individuals in the community, who may have previously been members of the church, with information which could be relevant to our investigation.

"We are appealing for anyone with concerns or information to come forward. Anyone with information will be offered appropriate support as required."

First for all the latest news from across the UK every hour on Hits Radio on DAB, at hitsradio.co.uk and on the Rayo app.