SHEFFIELD (UNITED KINGDOM)
Examiner Live [Huddersfield, UK]
October 29, 2026
By Sophie Corcoran
A former Sheffield church leader and his wife have been charged with rape.
Stephen Timmis, 68, and Janet Timmis, 61, both of Psalter Lane, Sheffield, have been charged with eight counts of rape against one person. The offences are alleged to have taken place between May and September 2008 while Mr Timmis was a church leader at the Crowded House Church.
South Yorkshire Police say its investigation has led officers to believe there may be people who were previously members of the church who may have information in relation to enquiries.
A spokesperson for the force said: “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, Sheffield, 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 December 1, 2026. 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.”
Mr and Mrs Timmis will appear at Sheffield Magistrates’ Court on December 1.
Anyone with any information should get in touch on 101 or South Yorkshire Police’s online reporting system here. You should quote the investigation number 14/229723/24 when passing on information.