Police enquiries into Mike Pilavachi’s conduct found “no criminal offences have taken place”, after a church probe concluded he carried out emotional and psychological abuse.
An internal church investigation relating to Mike Pilavachi concluded two weeks ago and found he used his “spiritual authority” to control people, and his “coercive and controlling behaviour” led to “inappropriate relationships, the physical wrestling of youths, and massaging of young male interns”.
Despite safeguarding concerns being found “substantiated” by the Church of England’s National Safeguarding Team, a Herts Police spokesperson has confirmed there is no criminal investigation at present.
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They added: “Detectives from Hertfordshire Constabulary have spoken at length to a small number of people who have made reports in relation to the conduct of Mike Pilavachi at Soul Survivor Watford.
“Following an in-depth review of all the information gathered, it has been ascertained that no criminal offences have taken place.
“All those who had made a report to police were made fully aware of the constabulary’s position and the reasons for the decisions made but as always, any additional information or reports that come to light will be fully investigated.”
Mr Pilavachi founded and is a former pastor for Soul Survivor Watford, a church in Greycaine Road. He also set up the Soul Survivor Christian youth festival.
The concerns related to his behaviour over 40 years, “from his time as a youth leader through to current day”.
The pastor had resigned his roles prior to the investigation concluding and the church is apparently “committed” to ensuring relevant safeguarding information is passed on if he were to minister elsewhere.
It was announced that Mr Pilavachi had stepped back from all ministry in April as it was confirmed that an investigation into safeguarding concerns relating to him had begun. He was then suspended in May and resigned in July.
Soul Survivor and the wider church praised those who came forward and brought “abusive behaviour to light”.
The Watford church added that it was “deeply sorry” to the victims and “committed to learning lessons” including putting further practices in place.
Soul Survivor has commissioned Fiona Scolding KC to lead a full and independent review following the revelations.
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