PHILIP FUSCO: FORMER IRISH RANGERS SOLDIER SENTENCED IN DOVER AND LISBURN FOR CHILD SEX OFFENSES

In a case that has spanned over a quarter of a century, Philip Fusco, a former soldier with the Irish Rangers, has been brought to justice for heinous sexual offenses committed against a young child in Dover during the late 1980s. Despite having moved to Lisburn, Northern Ireland, married, and established a new life, Fusco’s past actions have finally caught up with him through the diligent work of the legal system.

It was in April 2017 that Fusco, now aged 56, faced the consequences of his long-buried crimes. A jury at Canterbury Crown Court found him guilty of three separate sexual assaults that took place in Dover more than 25 years ago. The court heard that Fusco had believed he had escaped justice, living quietly with his family in Lisburn after serving with a degree of distinction in the military. However, the weight of evidence and the passage of time could not shield him from accountability.

During the sentencing, Judge Simon James addressed Fusco directly, stating, “This case provides an extreme and graphic illustration how the view of society on this kind of offending has changed.” The judge emphasized that Fusco had been living with a secret for many years, which had finally been uncovered. He remarked that if Fusco had been charged under current legislation, he could have faced a maximum life sentence for his appalling acts against the young victim. However, because the crimes occurred in the 1980s, the applicable legal framework limited the maximum sentence to just two years in prison. Ironically, under the newer laws, the maximum sentence for such offenses would be only one year, as the second year would be served on licence.

Fusco’s background was also discussed during the proceedings. He was living with his family in Lisburn, Northern Ireland, after serving his country with what was described as “a degree of distinction.” Despite his military service, he was arrested and charged with sexual offenses. He initially pleaded not guilty but was ultimately convicted and required to sign the sex offenders’ register, a move that will have lasting implications for his future.

The judge detailed the severity of Fusco’s crimes, stating, “Many years ago you subjected your victim to prolonged, sustained sexual abuse. You then left the area to start a new life and lived happily with your family for decades… yet your abuse blighted your victim’s life.” The impact on the victim was profound, and the court acknowledged that the conviction might serve as a form of closure for her, although the restrictions imposed by the sentence could complicate her healing process.

In total, Fusco was sentenced to three years in prison. Additionally, he was ordered to remain on licence for an extra three years following his release, ensuring continued supervision and restrictions to prevent further harm. The case underscores the ongoing societal shift in how such offenses are viewed and prosecuted, reflecting a more stringent stance on sexual crimes against children and the importance of justice, regardless of the passage of time.