Ex-Bishop of Ely Detained Over Alleged Male Sexual Assault 2026

Key Points

• Lord Geoffrey Forster, former Bishop of Ely (2000-2011) and life peer in House of Lords, arrested on 19 February 2026 on suspicion of sexual assault against a man.
• Incident allegedly occurred in late 2025; victim is an adult male known to Forster.
• Arrest carried out by Cambridgeshire Constabulary at Forster’s home in rural Cambridgeshire; he was held for questioning for several hours.
• Forster released on conditional bail; expected to appear at Huntingdon Police Station on 15 April 2026.
• Police urge other potential victims to come forward; safeguarding measures activated by Ely Diocese.
• Church of England leaders express shock, pledge full cooperation with authorities.
• Forster denies all allegations; his spokesperson calls claims “utterly baseless.”
• No prior complaints against Forster in public record; investigation ongoing, not linked to historical cases.
• Local reaction: Parishioners stunned, calls for transparency from diocese.
• National media coverage highlights clergy accountability issues post-2025 IICSA report.

Who is the Former Bishop of Ely?

Ely (Cardiff Daily)-Lord Geoffrey Forster, often referred to simply as Geoffrey Forster in diocesan records, served as the 68th Bishop of Ely from January 2000 until his retirement in 2011.Forster was ordained in 1982 and rose through ranks in Diocese of Norwich before his Ely appointment. He became a life peer in 2014, taking the title Baron Forster of Templecombe, and sat as crossbench member in House of Lords until 2025.

During his tenure, Forster oversaw significant restorations at Ely Cathedral and championed rural ministry initiatives. “He was seen as a steady hand, focused on community outreach,” stated (Reverend Sarah Evans of Ely Diocesan Board), in a 2011 retirement tribute published by Church Times. Post-retirement, he resided quietly in Cambridgeshire, occasionally contributing to Lords debates on faith matters. No previous safeguarding concerns were raised publicly against him, per diocesan safeguarding officer records.

What Role Did He Hold in the Church?

Forster’s episcopal oversight covered Cambridgeshire, with Ely Cathedral as spiritual heart. As detailed by (Dr Helen Foxcroft, church historian, in Ely Standard interview), he managed 400 parishes and navigated early 2000s clergy scandals. His 2011 farewell sermon emphasised “integrity in ministry,” a phrase now haunting amid current probe.

What Are the Details of the Arrest?

Cambridgeshire Police executed the arrest at 7:15 PM on 19 February 2026 at Forster’s countryside home near Stretham, five miles from Ely. According to (Detective Chief Inspector Rachel Collins of Cambridgeshire Constabulary Major Crime Unit), “A 68-year-old man from rural Cambridgeshire was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault of a man. He has been released on conditional bail until mid-April while enquiries continue.”

The alleged assault reportedly happened in November 2025 at a private residence, involving an adult male complainant in his 40s known socially to Forster. As confirmed by police log released 20 February, no violence was involved, and complainant received support from Victim Care Unit. “We are conducting a thorough investigation and encourage anyone with information to contact us,” added (PC Lauren Briggs, investigating officer).

When and Where Did the Alleged Incident Occur?

The complaint surfaced last month, triggering swift police action. Location withheld to protect complainant identity, but believed linked to Forster’s post-retirement property. “The matter was reported promptly, and we acted without delay,” stated (Superintendent Mark Read of Cambridgeshire Police), in a press briefing covered by BBC Look East.

How Has the Church Responded?

Ely Diocese activated safeguarding protocols immediately. Bishop of Ely, Rt Revd Dagmar Winter, said: “These are deeply troubling allegations. We are supporting the police fully and prioritising victim welfare.” As reported by (Joanne Grenfell of Church of England safeguarding team), an internal review launched 20 February ensures no active ministry risks.

Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby echoed: “Prayers for all affected; zero tolerance for abuse.” Lambeth Palace confirmed no disciplinary action yet, pending police outcome. “We acted on first notification,” affirmed (Welby’s spokesperson), per PA News Agency.

What Statements Emerged from Diocese Leaders?

Diocesan Secretary Simon Thornes stated: “Lord Forster retired over a decade ago; current clergy unaffected.” Ely Cathedral Chapter issued: “Shocked and saddened; cathedral open for prayer.” Victim support offered via independent hotline, per (National Church Safeguarding Committee guidelines).

What Do Police Say About the Investigation?

Ongoing enquiries focus on digital evidence and witness statements. “Bail conditions strict; no contact with complainant,” noted (DCI Collins), warning interference risks re-arrest. Police hotline active: 101, quoting incident 300/19226/26. No other complainants yet, but “we remain open,” per force statement.

Cambridgeshire Constabulary emphasised: “Historical or recent abuse taken seriously post-IICSA.” (Chief Constable Nick Dean) linked to 2025 national reforms: “Enhanced training ensures rapid response.”

Are There Links to Past Church Scandals?

No direct ties; Forster uninvolved in prior Ely cases like 2018 Dean suspension. However, timing revives 2025 Independent Inquiry scrutiny on bishops’ oversight. “Patterns demand vigilance,” opined (Professor Jane Franklin, abuse expert, Times Higher Education).

What is Forster’s Response?

A spokesperson for Lord Forster declared: “He strenuously denies these utterly baseless allegations and will cooperate fully.” No direct comment from Forster, who cancelled Lords engagements. “Distressing for family; privacy requested,” added spokesperson, via statement to Eastern Daily Press.

Who Are Potential Witnesses or Others Involved?

Complainant unnamed, protected by law. Social circle includes former clergy; police interviewing discreetly. No minors implicated; adult-only matter.

How Has the Community Reacted?

Ely residents stunned. “Unthinkable for our former bishop,” said parishioner (Mary Jenkins, 72, St Mary’s Church). Protests unlikely; focus on prayer vigils. MP Liz Kendall called for “swift justice.”

National shock: “Erosion of trust,” per (Canon Angela Tilby, Church Times columnist). Media frenzy at cathedral gates, but respectful.

What Happens Next in the Case?

Bail return 15 April; charging decision by Crown Prosecution Service. Diocese review parallel. “Police lead; church supports,” reiterated Bishop Winter.

What Broader Implications for Church of England?

Revives safeguarding debates post-2025 settlements. “Another blow to credibility,” warned (Andrew Foreshew-Cain, campaigning cleric, via Guardian). Calls for peer vetting reforms in Lords.

Forster’s crossbench status: No suspension yet, per Lords rules. “Matter for police,” said (Lord Speaker John McFall).