Leeds police agree to apologise in person at Harehills church after disrupting memorial service

West Yorkshire Police interrupted the service at the New Testament Church of God in Harehills last Thursday (November 13) to arrest one of the 300-plus attendees wanted on recall to prison.

Those who were in attendance were left “distressed” and “appalled” by the decision to interrupt the service, which was in memory of a “faithful elder” who had recently died.

A melee then ensued outside and members of the congregation, as well as the Bishop, Tony Parry, were reportedly pushed over.

Police visited the church the following day to speak to Mr Parry and apologise for their actions and a letter was subsequently sent. However, he insisted that they visit in person to address the congregation if they were “serious about building bridges”.

Mr Parry has now issued a message saying that he is “very pleased” to confirm that police will attend the church on Saturday, November 22, at 2pm.

He said: “They have now come to realise the necessity to give what we asked for, which was a public apology to the family that have been affected, to the church where it took place and to the wider community.

“This will not be a worship service (and) this won’t be a public meeting per se where there will be an opportunity to forensically ask questions. This is a platform where a senior police officer will come to give an apology for the incident that took place.”

He added: “I do hope that you will come with understanding that this is something we have been asking for. It won’t be a question and answer type session, it will be a time to listen and hopefully start the healing process for the family for what took place.

“There will be other future meetings where accountability of the police can be questioned. This is not that.

“I hope you come with a peaceful and respectful attitude.”

He asked for anybody willing to help steward the visit to get in touch.

Mr Parry previously said that the memorial service had been “beautiful” until it was “destroyed in one instant” by the police’s actions. He said that the memories of the day had been “tainted” for the family and those in attendance.

West Yorkshire Police have been approached for a comment. They previously said that they “deeply regret” the impact that the incident has had on those present.

Leeds District Commander Chief Superintendent Steve Dodds said: “Places of worship hold a special and significant role in our communities and any police intervention in such settings must be approached with the utmost care and sensitivity.

“On this occasion, we failed to meet that standard, and for the distress caused, I offer my sincere and unreserved apology.”

The matter has been referred to the Professional Standards Department and a full and thorough review is underway to identify lessons learned and any necessary actions to prevent a reoccurrence.