A prison chaplain who was accused of having intercourse with a prisoner has died before her court appearance.
Susan Bell, 59, who lived in Darlington, County Durham, passed away in June - before she had a chance to enter a plea in court.
Bell, who first appeared at Teesside Magistrates' Court in April this year, was charged with having sexual intercourse with a prisoner.
The 59-year-old was accused of wilfully and without reasonable excuse misconducting herself in a way which amounted to an "abuse of the public's trust".
Although the charge does not specify where the alleged offence took place, it is reported to have occurred in Stockton.
However, on Friday, Teesside Crown Court formally ended the case against Reverend Bell, reports Teesside Live.
This comes after a judge was informed that she passed away, just two months after her first court appearance.
No further details surrounding her death were outlined during the hearing.
However, St Columba's Church in Darlington, where she was formerly the curate, said that she was, "well liked and a much valued member of her community."
In April 2022, Bell appeared at Teesside Magistrates' Court, and was represented by solicitor Brett Wildridge.
The charge was not put to Bell as the offence is indictable only and must be sent directly to the crown court.
It was however specified during the short hearing that the offence is dated as March 17, 2021.
During the short hearing, District Judge Helen Cousins said: "Mrs Bell, this is a matter that can only be dealt with at the crown court."
Bell did not enter a plea to the charge during the first hearing.
