THOMAS MCPHILLIPS SENTENCED IN ABERGAVENNY AND KILWINNING FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE
| Red Rose Database
Abergavenny Kilwinning Sexual Abuser
In a harrowing case that has left a lasting impact on the victim, Thomas McPhillips, a 59-year-old man from Abergavenny, was sentenced to four years in prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing a young girl during her teenage years. The abuse took place between 2012 and 2013, and the conviction was secured following a trial at Newport Crown Court, where the jury delivered their verdict last month.
During the court proceedings, the victim, now an adult woman, delivered a powerful and emotional victim impact statement. She described how the abuse had completely shattered her life, robbing her of the chance to lead a normal and comfortable existence. She recounted the trauma of giving evidence during the trial, describing it as frightening and deeply distressing. Despite this, she expressed a sense of strength gained through the ordeal and indicated her readiness to seek professional help to cope with the aftermath of her experiences. Her words reflected a desire for justice and closure, and she expressed relief that her abuser had been held accountable.
The court also heard that McPhillips had a prior conviction for making a false representation to obtain benefits, for which he received a suspended prison sentence over ten years ago. This previous conviction was mentioned in the context of his current sentencing, highlighting a pattern of dishonesty and misconduct.
Judge Recorder Caroline Rees QC addressed the court, noting that McPhillips’s conduct and attitude did not do him any favors. The judge pointed out that the defendant continued to deny the allegations and maintain his innocence, despite the evidence presented. The prosecution’s representative, Mr. Roberts, acknowledged that McPhillips expressed remorse, stating, “He is sorry for what she (his victim) was put through.”
In her sentencing remarks, Recorder Rees emphasized the devastating impact of McPhillips’s actions on the victim, describing her as a damaged woman who had been profoundly affected by the abuse. The judge also noted the absence of any genuine remorse from the defendant. As part of his sentence, McPhillips was ordered to serve four years in prison, and he will be subject to a 10-year sexual harm prevention order. Additionally, he is required to register as a sex offender for life and pay a victim surcharge upon release.
At the time of sentencing, McPhillips was residing at Forge Vennel in Kilwinning, Ayrshire, Scotland. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness of his crimes and the ongoing measures to prevent further harm, including the lifetime registration requirement and the sexual harm prevention order.
During the court proceedings, the victim, now an adult woman, delivered a powerful and emotional victim impact statement. She described how the abuse had completely shattered her life, robbing her of the chance to lead a normal and comfortable existence. She recounted the trauma of giving evidence during the trial, describing it as frightening and deeply distressing. Despite this, she expressed a sense of strength gained through the ordeal and indicated her readiness to seek professional help to cope with the aftermath of her experiences. Her words reflected a desire for justice and closure, and she expressed relief that her abuser had been held accountable.
The court also heard that McPhillips had a prior conviction for making a false representation to obtain benefits, for which he received a suspended prison sentence over ten years ago. This previous conviction was mentioned in the context of his current sentencing, highlighting a pattern of dishonesty and misconduct.
Judge Recorder Caroline Rees QC addressed the court, noting that McPhillips’s conduct and attitude did not do him any favors. The judge pointed out that the defendant continued to deny the allegations and maintain his innocence, despite the evidence presented. The prosecution’s representative, Mr. Roberts, acknowledged that McPhillips expressed remorse, stating, “He is sorry for what she (his victim) was put through.”
In her sentencing remarks, Recorder Rees emphasized the devastating impact of McPhillips’s actions on the victim, describing her as a damaged woman who had been profoundly affected by the abuse. The judge also noted the absence of any genuine remorse from the defendant. As part of his sentence, McPhillips was ordered to serve four years in prison, and he will be subject to a 10-year sexual harm prevention order. Additionally, he is required to register as a sex offender for life and pay a victim surcharge upon release.
At the time of sentencing, McPhillips was residing at Forge Vennel in Kilwinning, Ayrshire, Scotland. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness of his crimes and the ongoing measures to prevent further harm, including the lifetime registration requirement and the sexual harm prevention order.