Church of England Priest Investigated Amidst Allegations of Child Abuse
January 26, 2012
Posted by:Rebecca Sheriff
Father Wilkie Denford, 76, and a 68 year old unnamed man, both from the Lewes area, were arrested in November 2011 and have recently been bailed until 1 March 2012.
Both men are accused of abusing two young boys in a number of locations across West Sussex in 1988. The abuse is alleged to have taken place while Father Denford was a vicar at St John the Evangelist in Burgess Hill and whilst the unnamed man worked as an organist in the Lewes area.
As the investigation continues, the Church of England confirmed that both men have been suspended from church duties.
Once the police investigation has concluded, there is a potential claim for compensation for both victims against the Diocese of Chichester who is ultimately responsible for the abusers actions. In addition, there may also be claim against the abusers themselves should they have sufficient assets.