Catholic priest charged with historic sex offences against boys in Leeds

A Catholic priest has been charged with historic sex offences against young boys.
By Rebecca Marano
Published 1st Dec 2020, 11:55 BST
Updated 1st Dec 2020, 12:07 BST
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Father Patrick Smythe, aged 77, has been charged with four counts of indecent assault on four boys aged under 16.

The crimes allegedly took place in Leeds and Skipton between 1979 and 1983.

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He is due to appear at Leeds Magistrates Court on Wednesday, December 16.

In August 2010, Fr Patrick was entrusted with the pastoral care of the newly formed Parish of Our Lady of Kirkstall, comprising a number of former neighbouring parishes in the city.