Catholic Priest Sentenced for Sexually Abusing Boys

A Catholic priest has been sentenced to seven and a half years in prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing six boys in his care.

Father Patrick Smythe, 79, was convicted by a jury at Leeds Crown Court. The jury reached unanimous guilty verdicts on six counts of indecent assault and one of attempted indecent assault.

The abuse took place over four decades ago, with Smythe targeting three of his victims during swimming trips to the former Leeds International Pool. He also abused boys in his care while on a retreat at a hostel in North Yorkshire.

During the trial, Smythe denied any wrongdoing, but Judge Simon Batiste called his account "a pack of lies." The judge described the victims, who were between 12 and 16 years old at the time of the offenses, as showing "great bravery and fortitude."

Three of the victims provided statements to the court detailing the lifelong suffering caused by the abuse. One victim described how the abuse led him to abuse alcohol from a young age and the shame and anxiety it caused him. He expressed hope that the trial would allow him to finally move on with his life.

Another victim described Smythe as "a beast" who used the church to get close to young boys. A third victim said the abuse caused him to lose faith in the Catholic church and that he feared Smythe would never be brought to justice.

Smythe showed no emotion as he was sentenced. In addition to the prison term, he was ordered to register as a sex offender for life. The judge also noted that the church would likely withdraw its support from Smythe.

Detective Inspector Vicky Alexander, of Leeds District Safeguarding Unit, praised the victims for their courage in coming forward and commended the officers who investigated the case. She emphasized the seriousness of sexual offenses and the support available to victims.