PHILIP THOMPSON FROM SUNDERLAND JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON SCHOOLGIRL IN NEWCASTLE
In August 2016, a disturbing case unfolded involving Philip Thompson, a former soldier from Sunderland, who was convicted of sexually assaulting a young girl.The incident took place in Newcastle, where Thompson, aged 35 at the time, was found to have kissed and inappropriately touched the girl despite her efforts to push his hand away.
The court heard that Thompson was under the influence of alcohol and drugs during the assault, which contributed to his actions.
Prosecutor Paul Currer detailed that the victim did not initially disclose the incident.
It was only when she was alone with her mother one evening that she attempted to communicate what had happened.
She used her phone to type out her account, indicating her distress and difficulty in verbalizing the assault.
The girl was so troubled by the experience that she confided in some of her school friends, who then reported her concerns to a staff member at her school.
This chain of events led to Thompson’s arrest.
During police questioning, Thompson claimed to have no memory of the incident and denied any sexual assault.
The court was informed that the girl was deeply distressed by the event, which had caused disruptions in her school life and personal well-being.
Thompson, who resided on Eldon Street in the Chester Road area of Sunderland, admitted to the sexual assault of a female under 13.
His defense team presented evidence indicating that Thompson suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder, a condition linked to his military service in the Middle East, particularly Iraq.
The court also acknowledged a pattern of alcohol abuse in Thompson’s history, noting that he had recently ceased drinking after recognizing the harmful effects it had on his behavior.
Judge Tim Gittins addressed Thompson directly, emphasizing the severe impact of the assault on the young victim.
He expressed hope that the girl, being still young, would be able to move past the trauma.
The judge highlighted that Thompson’s intoxication at the time rendered him unable to remember the assault, which he attributed to the influence of alcohol and drugs.
Gittins pointed out that Thompson’s intoxication appeared to have unleashed a darker side of his personality, which he believed was triggered by substance abuse.
Furthermore, the judge noted that Thompson initially denied the allegations but acknowledged that it was unlikely the girl would have fabricated such a serious matter.
Gittins linked Thompson’s mental health issues, stemming from his military service, to his criminal behavior, suggesting a possible connection.
Ultimately, Judge Gittins sentenced Philip Thompson to three years and six months in prison.
Additionally, he ordered Thompson to register as a sex offender, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his conduct.
The case underscores the tragic consequences of substance abuse and mental health issues intertwined with criminal behavior, especially involving vulnerable minors.
