PHILIP WATSON SEX OFFENDER FROM SUNDERLAND AND WASHINGTON SENTENCED FOR MULTIPLE SEXUAL OFFENCES

In May 2017, a man who endured years of suffering after being sexually assaulted by a teaching assistant from Wearside has spoken out about the long-lasting impact of his ordeal. The victim, now in his 30s, recounted how the abuse he suffered as a schoolboy left him with deep emotional scars that continue to affect his life today.

Philip Watson, aged 51, was sentenced to six years in prison after being convicted of multiple sex offences. The charges included five counts of indecent assault on a male, one sexual assault, and one sexual assault on a child under the age of 13. These offences were committed against three different victims, with Watson’s crimes coming to light during a court case at Newcastle Crown Court.

It was revealed that Watson was employed by Sunderland City Council from 1990 until his dismissal in 2016 for gross misconduct. His employment history and the timing of his dismissal were confirmed by the council. The victim, who was a student at the time of the abuse, only realized the full extent of what had happened to him many years later. It was during his adulthood that he decided to report the abuse to the police, which led to Watson’s arrest and subsequent prosecution.

The victim recounted that the trauma inflicted by Watson’s actions caused him to turn to alcohol and drugs in an attempt to cope with the pain. He explained that it was only in 2015, after struggling with substance abuse and behavioral issues, that he confided in his doctor about the abuse he had suffered. Following this disclosure, the doctor advised him to contact the police, which he did. Watson, who resides on Raeburn Avenue in the Biddick area of Washington, was arrested and charged following the police investigation.

During the trial, the victim provided evidence via videolink at Newcastle Crown Court. Despite the conviction and prison sentence, the victim expressed his dissatisfaction with the length of Watson’s punishment. He voiced his frustration, stating, “I’ve gone through years of hell and he is only getting six years for what he’s done.” He added that he fears Watson could be released early due to good behavior, which would allow him to re-enter society after serving only a few years.

The victim also shared the ongoing emotional toll the abuse has taken on his life. He revealed that he rarely leaves his house and has been diagnosed with a personality disorder. He questioned why he should be held responsible for the difficulties he faces, asserting, “If it wasn’t for what he did, I wouldn’t be that way.” He reflected on his childhood, acknowledging behavioral problems but questioning whether such issues should persist into adulthood. “He might only serve a few years and get out for good behavior,” he lamented.

A spokesperson for Sunderland City Council confirmed Watson’s employment history, stating, “Philip Watson was employed by Sunderland City Council from June 4, 1990, until 12 May, 2016, when he was dismissed.” The case highlights the devastating impact of abuse and raises concerns about the adequacy of sentencing for such serious crimes, especially when the offender held a position of trust and exploited it for personal gain.