LEIGHTON PHILLIPS SHOCKS MARKET DRAYTON AND CARDIFF WITH TRAIN SEXUAL ASSAULTS

In October 2020, a disturbing incident unfolded on a train traveling from Cardiff to Shrewsbury, involving a former police officer from West Mercia Police, Leighton Phillips, aged 34, who resides on Forest Road in Market Drayton, Shropshire. The events, which took place after a rugby match, resulted in Phillips being convicted of serious sexual offenses against two young girls and subsequently sentenced by Swansea Crown Court.

According to court proceedings, the incident occurred around 5 pm on February 1st, as Phillips was returning home following the Wales versus Italy Six Nations rugby match. On the train, a 14-year-old girl was standing in the aisle near where Phillips was seated. She observed that Phillips was fixated on her, and shortly thereafter, he began to touch her thigh inappropriately. The court heard that Phillips then directed his unwanted attention toward an 11-year-old girl, who was also on the train. When she noticed his hand approaching, she pushed it away in an attempt to defend herself.

Distressed and visibly upset, both young victims moved further down the aisle in an effort to distance themselves from Phillips. Despite their efforts to escape his gaze and unwanted advances, Phillips continued to stare at them, creating a tense and frightening environment for the girls. The situation escalated when, before the train reached Abergavenny station, a fellow passenger confronted Phillips about his behavior. In response, Phillips denied any wrongdoing and claimed, “I’m a police officer,” attempting to dismiss the concerns raised against him.

Following the incident, the matter was reported to the British Transport Police (BTP). Officers responded promptly and met Phillips at Shrewsbury station, where they arrested him on suspicion of sexual assault. The case was thoroughly investigated, leading to Phillips’s conviction on two counts of sexual assault at Swansea Crown Court on September 18th. The court found him guilty of the charges, and he was subsequently sentenced to a two-year community order. As part of his sentence, Phillips is required to attend 20 rehabilitation activity days, and he will be under an electronically monitored curfew from 10 pm to 7 am for three months. Additionally, he is mandated to register as a sex offender for a period of five years, ensuring ongoing monitoring and public safety.

This case highlights the serious nature of sexual misconduct and the importance of vigilant reporting and swift law enforcement action. The victims, though young, demonstrated remarkable courage in coming forward, and the justice system responded appropriately to hold Phillips accountable for his actions.