How An Abuse Victim Took The Law Into His Own Hands...

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: 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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