Summary
Fiona Rugg, daughter of John Smyth QC, learned that her father abused 130 boys in the late 1970s and early 1980s while posing as a spiritual leader. The Church of England is accused of covering up these abuses. Rugg has publicly expressed sorrow for her father's actions and shared her personal struggles with the impact of his crimes.
Key Facts
- John Smyth QC was accused of abusing 130 boys and young men in the 1970s and 1980s.
- Smyth used his position in the Church of England to commit these abuses.
- The abuse was framed as "spiritual discipline" under the guise of religious repentance.
- Fiona Rugg, Smyth’s daughter, has spoken publicly about her father's crimes for the first time.
- The Makin Review in 2024 concluded that the church attempted to cover up the allegations.
- Rugg expressed feelings of shame and guilt, despite knowing she was not responsible.
- Smyth gained access to boys through Winchester College's Christian union.
- The abuse involved violent canings in a soundproofed shed at Smyth's home.
