Church of England Covered Up Abuse of Over 100 Boys by Cambridge Barrister John Smyth QC: Report
Church of England Covered Up Abuse of Over 100 Boys: A shocking new report has unveiled how the Church of England covered up extensive abuse by Cambridge barrister John Smyth QC, involving more than 100 young boys and men over decades. Smyth, who was closely connected to the church, allegedly subjected boys to horrific abuse under the guise of Christian teachings, with the church failing to act on reports of his actions.
John Smyth QC: The Abusive Barrister Linked to the Church of England
According to the independent review, John Smyth QC, a barrister associated with the Church of England, targeted boys he met through church-run camps, particularly in the 1970s and 1980s. The abuse reportedly took place in Smyth’s Winchester home, where he severely beat young boys he had encountered at evangelical summer camps in Dorset. The investigation revealed that Smyth manipulated Christian teachings to justify his violence, casting a dark shadow on church practices and accountability.
Over 14,000 Hits Inflicted in “Horrific” Abuse
Details from the report describe how Smyth’s physical abuse involved the use of a garden cane, with him delivering over 14,000 hits to eight young victims and 8,000 additional hits to two others during a three-year period. This severe violence was deemed “abhorrent” and “horrific,” but despite an internal report in 1982 by the Iwerne Trust, no action was taken to stop Smyth, allowing him to continue his activities without intervention from church leaders or law enforcement.
Church Authorities and Lack of Action
In 2017, Channel 4 News revealed Smyth’s history of abuse, bringing public attention to the church’s inaction. Despite the evidence, it wasn’t until 2013 that the abuse was reported to the police, leaving victims without justice for decades. Church officials were reportedly aware of Smyth’s activities but refrained from contacting authorities, choosing instead to advise Smyth to leave the country. Following this advice, Smyth moved to Zimbabwe, where he continued to evade justice until his death in 2018 at age 77.
Apology from the Archbishop of Canterbury
Upon the report’s release, the Archbishop of Canterbury issued another public apology to the victims, condemning Smyth’s manipulation of Christian principles. Smyth, who had also represented high-profile morality campaigner Mary Whitehouse, abused his church connections to gain access to young boys, abusing his position of trust to exploit and control his victims.
This tragic case has raised serious questions about institutional responsibility and accountability within the Church of England, drawing attention to the need for greater safeguards and transparency to protect vulnerable individuals.
