PHILIP WELTON FROM HIGHWORTH AND SWINDON SENTENCED FOR SEX OFFENCES AGAINST GIRL

In October 2004, a highly regarded music teacher from the towns of Highworth and Swindon found himself behind bars after admitting to committing a series of serious sexual offences against a young girl. Philip Welton, aged 46 and residing on Lismore Road in Highworth, was sentenced to four years in prison at Swindon Crown Court following a detailed hearing of his case.

Judge Thomas Longbotham presided over the proceedings, during which it was revealed that Welton was aware of the wrongfulness of his actions. Evidence showed that he knew he was doing something morally and legally wrong, yet he continued with his assaults. Disturbingly, it was also disclosed that Welton engaged in prayer during the times he was abusing his victim, indicating a troubling awareness of his misconduct even as he committed these acts.

The victim, a young girl, confided in her mother several months after the abuse had stopped, revealing her discomfort and dislike towards Welton. This disclosure was instrumental in bringing the case to light. Prosecutor Lyn Matthews explained that when police questioned Welton, he expressed feelings of guilt, citing his religious beliefs as a reason for his remorse. He stated that he believed sex outside of marriage was wrong, as taught by the Bible, and claimed that he had ceased his abusive behaviour because he had been granted 'deliverance.'

Welton pleaded guilty to five counts of indecent assault and two counts of inciting an act of gross indecency. All but one of these charges were based on specific incidents, with two similar offences remaining on file. The assaults reportedly began when the girl was approximately nine years old and continued over a period of two years, from December 2000 to 2002.

During mitigation, Robin Shellard, representing Welton, highlighted that the teacher acknowledged his wrongdoing during police interviews, recognizing that his actions were contrary to both divine law and the law of the land. Shellard emphasized Welton’s remorse and his desire to apologize to the victim and ensure her well-being.

It was also noted that Welton, who had no prior criminal record, had been subjected to a brain injury earlier in life, which contributed to psychiatric issues. He had experienced periods of remission over the past two decades. In 2002, Welton was prescribed new medication, which led to an improvement in his condition and a cessation of the abusive behaviour.

However, Judge Longbotham pointed out that a psychiatric report described Welton as someone prone to uncontrollable outbursts of violence or anger. The report also indicated that Welton posed a significant risk to children, displaying little empathy or understanding of his victims’ suffering. Instead, he appeared to prioritize his own needs for control and sexual gratification.

As part of his sentence, the judge ordered Welton to serve an additional two years beyond the standard license period upon his release. Furthermore, Welton was disqualified from working with children and was mandated to register as a sex offender indefinitely, reflecting the serious nature of his crimes and the potential danger he posed to society.