PHILLIP SHILLING SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS FOR SEX OFFENCES AT CANTERBURY COLLEGE
In a high-profile case at Canterbury Crown Court, Phillip Shilling, a 55-year-old former college lecturer, was sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being convicted of multiple sexual offences.The court heard that Shilling, who previously taught bricklaying at Canterbury College, engaged in a disturbing campaign of sexual abuse against vulnerable victims over an extended period.
During the trial, Shilling appeared in court dressed in a man’s attire, maintaining a traditional appearance.
However, for the sentencing hearing on a recent Friday, he made a striking change, donning a brunette wig and a cardigan, which drew attention from those present.
Throughout the proceedings, he showed no signs of remorse or contrition, standing defiant as the judge delivered his verdict.
Judge James O’Mahony did not hold back in his remarks, describing Shilling as “proud as a peacock” and criticizing his lack of insight into the harm he caused.
The judge emphasized that Shilling demonstrated no understanding of the danger he posed or the suffering inflicted upon his victims.
The court was told that Shilling was convicted by a jury of eight separate sex offences, which included acts of rape and sexual abuse.
The judge sentenced Shilling to a 24-year extended prison term, with the stipulation that he would not be eligible for parole until he had served a significant portion of his sentence, likely in his late 60s.
Prosecutor Ross Cohen detailed the manipulative tactics employed by Shilling, revealing that he used threats, humiliation, and bribes to control and coerce his victims.
It was also disclosed that he often intoxicated his victims with alcohol to facilitate his abuse.
One particularly disturbing incident involved Shilling urinating over the uniform of one of his victims, who was then forced to wear it to school the following day.
When arrested, Shilling initially denied the allegations, claiming that his victims had lied.
However, he refused to cooperate further with police inquiries, refusing to answer questions about the accusations against him.
In his sentencing remarks, Judge O’Mahony condemned Shilling’s attitude, stating that his behavior was characterized by cruelty and a complete lack of empathy.
The judge pointed out that Shilling’s grooming tactics included offering alcohol, cigarettes, money, or resorting to physical violence, all aimed at satisfying his own sexual desires.
The judge clarified that the reference to the “peacock” was metaphorical, referring to Shilling’s arrogant demeanor in court, rather than his clothing choices.
As part of his punishment, Shilling was sentenced to serve 20 years in prison, with an additional four years on licence following his release, ensuring he remains under supervision for a considerable period after serving his sentence.
