PHILIP KNOWLES FROM ST HELENS EXTRADITED FROM TENERIFE AND JAILED FOR SEX OFFENCES

In a significant development in the fight against sexual crimes, Philip Gordon Knowles, a man with ties to the Merseyside area, was recently brought back to the United Kingdom from the Canary Islands to face justice for a series of historical sex offences. Knowles, who was residing in the Oasis del Sur region of Tenerife at the time of his arrest, was extradited after a European Arrest Warrant was issued in April 2014, highlighting the international cooperation involved in this case.

Following his extradition, Knowles was transported to Madrid, where officers from the Matrix Serious Organised Crime specialist unit took custody of him. Subsequently, he was returned to the UK to stand trial for the serious allegations against him. The trial concluded earlier this week, resulting in a jury finding him guilty on multiple counts related to abuse that occurred decades ago.

Specifically, Philip Knowles, aged 54, was convicted of four counts of gross indecency involving a boy under the age of 14, as well as eight counts of indecent assault on a girl under the age of 16. These offences are believed to have taken place during the 1970s, a period when Knowles was living in the St Helens area of Merseyside. The jury's verdict confirmed the disturbing allegations of abuse spanning over a ten-year period.

In light of his convictions, Knowles was sentenced to serve eight years in prison. Additionally, he was ordered to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for life, a measure designed to monitor and restrict his activities post-release. He was also disqualified from working with children under the age of 16, aiming to prevent any potential future harm.

Detective Inspector Bev Hyland expressed her thoughts on the case, emphasizing the importance of justice for the victims. She stated, “Knowles is starting a long prison sentence after a jury found him guilty of a number of offences carried out over a ten-year period between 1970 and 1980 whilst he was living in the St Helens area. His victims have shown an immense amount of bravery in coming forward and having to re-live the abuse they suffered at Knowles’ hands. I hope his sentencing gives them some sense of closure and also provides wider reassurance that a dangerous and determined sex offender is now behind bars.”

She also reassured the public that any victims of sexual abuse should feel confident in reporting their experiences, as all complaints are taken seriously and investigated thoroughly by specially trained officers. The investigation was described as long and complex, with the support of the Crown Prosecution Service being instrumental throughout the process.

Overall, this case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to bring offenders to justice, regardless of how much time has passed since the crimes occurred. The community in Merseyside, particularly in St Helens, can find some solace in knowing that justice has been served and that individuals like Philip Knowles are held accountable for their actions.