Full Breakdown
Former Bishop Anthony Pierce Faces New Abuse Allegations as Police Probe Historic Claims
5/7/2026, 11:27:39 PM
New Allegations Against Former Bishop Anthony Pierce
South Wales Police received three reports alleging sexual abuse by former Bishop Anthony Pierce, said to date from the 1970s-80s. The allegations are under investigation, and detectives urged further victims to contact the force.
Background: Prior Conviction and Church Handling
Pierce, 85, was Bishop of Swansea and Brecon (1999-2008). In March 2025 he received a four-year sentence after pleading guilty to five indecent assaults committed as a parish priest in West Cross (1985-1990). A 1993 allegation involving a 15-year-old was reported to Church officials but only reached police in 2010, after the victim died. A review found senior clergy knew of the abuse when he became Archdeacon of Gower (1995) and Bishop (1999).
Key Figures & Data
Key individuals include Anthony Pierce, the former bishop convicted of five indecent assaults (sentenced to four years); Detective Inspector Tom Richardson, who leads the police inquiry; and Brenda, a mother of an alleged victim. The Church in Wales senior clergy were aware of earlier allegations. The investigation covers three new reports, while original case involved five counts.
Official Police Response
South Wales Police said three new reports are being examined with the same rigor as the 2024 conviction. Detectives stressed the possibility of additional victims and reaffirmed a commitment to treat disclosures sensitively and compassionately. A dedicated hotline is available.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics point to the Church in Wales’ delayed reporting of the 1993 allegation as a failure to protect children. Brenda said the claim was dismissed by church officials, leaving her son unsupported. The 2024 review found senior clergy knew of the abuse before Pierce’s episcopal appointments, indicating systemic neglect.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The only person who believed him was me... it was dismissed. He had no trust in the system.” — Brenda, mother of alleged victim.
- “We know how difficult it must be for anyone to have suffered abuse in the past to come forward now.” — Det Insp Tom Richardson, South Wales Police.
- “It was the bravery of the victim who reported Pierce's actions which was instrumental in bringing him to justice.” — Det Insp Tom Richardson.
- “We believe that there may be others who have been subject to Pierce’s crimes and we want to provide reassurance that any reports will be fully investigated and dealt with sensitively and with compassion.” — Det Insp Tom Richardson.
What’s Next
Police will continue interviewing alleged victims and gathering evidence from the 1970s-80s. Survivors are urged to call the 101 non-emergency line, quoting occurrence number 2600140999. The Church in Wales has pledged full cooperation with investigators and a review of safeguarding procedures.
