Clark Frederick’s life changed forever after years of grooming and sexual abuse by Dennis Pegg, a Boy Scout leader and sheriff’s lieutenant trusted by his family and community.
Decades later, after struggling with addiction, gambling, broken relationships, PTSD, and silence, Clark encountered his abuser with another young boy. The sight triggered a devastating spiral that ended with Clark confronting and killing the man who abused him.
In this episode, Clark explains how he avoided a life sentence, why other alleged victims began coming forward, what happened during his three years awaiting trial, and how he ultimately received a five-year sentence for manslaughter.
He also shares how prison therapy, meditation, faith, sobriety, and speaking openly about his trauma helped him rebuild his life. Today, Clark is an advocate for survivors, the author of Scarred, and the host of the Free Like Me podcast.
This conversation includes discussions of childhood sexual abuse, addiction, violence, suicide, and trauma. Viewer discretion is advised.
Clark’s message is clear: revenge did not heal him. Survivors do not have to sacrifice the rest of their lives because of what was done to them. Breaking the silence, seeking support, and doing the work to heal can create a different future.
Check out Clark’s book and podcast on his website: https://www.freelike-me.com/
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00:00 Introduction & The Boy Scouts Scandal
01:45 Clark Frederick's Early Life
06:00 Grooming & Abuse Begins
12:10 Community Deception
19:00 Escalation to Abuse & Secret Files
25:00 Coping, Shame & Silence
33:00 Long-Term Impact & Struggles with Addiction
45:50 Decades of Trauma & Encounters with Abuser
59:00 Seeing Abuser with New Victim & Breaking Point
01:03:00 The Confrontation and Aftermath
01:17:00 Jail, Trial & Public Reaction
01:31:00 Healing, Advocacy & Changing the Law
01:39:00 Redemption, Family Loss & Life After Prison
01:44:00 Breaking the Silence & Moving Forward
01:47:00 Closing Reflections & Legacy
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