MICHAEL COPE BANNED FROM CHURCHES IN BROOMHILL AND SHEFFIELD AFTER PAEDOPHILE CONVICTIONS

In a significant and unprecedented move aimed at safeguarding children, Michael Cope, a convicted paedophile residing in Broomhill, Sheffield, has been officially barred from attending church services across the city and its surrounding dioceses. This decision was made by the Church of England in response to ongoing concerns about child protection and the potential risks posed by individuals with a history of sexual offenses against minors.

Michael Cope, aged 49, who has been a familiar face at Sheffield Cathedral, now finds himself excluded from all church gatherings where children might be present. The church authorities have emphasized that this measure is a responsible step to prevent any possibility of harm, despite Cope’s claims that he is a victim of “phobia and hysteria.” He maintains that his exclusion is based on unfounded fears rather than any recent misconduct.

Stephen Lowe, the Archdeacon of Sheffield, explained the church’s stance, stating, “We have taken a responsible decision which has nothing to do with the recent hue and cry and witch hunts. I do not wish to drive this man underground and I do not wish to ban him from any involvement in the church. But we must behave responsibly and we must show we are clearly protecting the children when they are potentially at risk. Under those circumstances, we have asked him not to attend church where children are present.”

Cope has voiced his frustration, asserting that the climate of fear surrounding paedophilia is often driven by misconceptions. He said, “I think it is phobia and hysteria. It is not really related to my actions. There is a general climate not helped by the press. I have spent so many years regretting that this happened and that people were upset. I do accept that I broke the law – I am not claiming otherwise.”

His criminal record includes convictions from the past, notably in 1995 when he was sentenced to 18 months in prison for indecently assaulting a boy involved in an opera at a Sheffield theatre. Additionally, in 1988, he served nine months for indecently assaulting three choirboys. Despite these convictions, Cope expressed that the church’s decision would cause him hardship, stating, “It will be a hardship of course, but it looks like I will not be going to church.”

To enforce the ban, Cope’s details and photograph have been circulated among neighboring dioceses and clergy, enabling authorities to identify him easily. The church has indicated that if the current restrictions are not effective, it will consider seeking an injunction to prevent his attendance altogether. This measure has been taken in close collaboration with police, social services, and the probation service, underscoring the seriousness with which the church and authorities are approaching child protection.

Detective Superintendent Bob Purdy, deputy head of South Yorkshire CID, commented on the situation, saying, “We think this is a matter for the church. Child protection is a key issue and safety of the community is a major concern.” The coordinated effort highlights the priority placed on preventing any potential harm to children and maintaining community safety in Sheffield and beyond.