Police in Wiltshire have launched a significant investigation to trace a man described as having a 'large build' and being 'hairy', who is wanted in connection with a distressing 13-year campaign of abuse against the former wife of an ex-councillor. This appeal comes after father-of-three Philip Young, 49, pleaded guilty to 48 serious sexual offences at Winchester Crown Court, admitting to repeatedly raping and drugging his ex-wife, Joanne Young, 48.
Graphic Images Released in Public Appeal
Officers have released a series of images, believed to have been taken around April or May 2022, showing the unidentified man. A police spokesman warned that the pictures may be 'triggering to some', but emphasised the force is 'really keen to identify and speak with' this individual. Senior investigating officer Detective Superintendent Geoff Smith stated: 'This is a significant investigation in which several suspects have appeared in court charged with various serious sexual offences. This man remains unknown and we remain really keen to identify and speak with him in connection with the case.'
The appeal has been made with the pre-sight and support of the victim, Joanne Young, who has waived her right to anonymity. DS Smith added: 'We appreciate the graphic nature of these images and that they may be triggering to some people, however we need the public's help to identify this man.'
Distinctive Physical Description
Wiltshire Police provided a detailed description of the man they wish to locate. He is said to be of a large build, hairy, with scarring on the back of his head, prominent lips, short or shaved hair, and a distinctive tattoo on the left side of his chest. Although the offences took place in Swindon, it is unknown whether the man lives locally or has travelled from elsewhere, prompting a widespread appeal for information.
Court Proceedings and Guilty Pleas
Philip Young appeared in court dressed in a prison-issued grey tracksuit, lowering his eyes as his ex-wife of more than 20 years entered the room. He admitted to 11 counts of rape, seven charges of sexual assault, and four counts of sexual touching, all involving Joanne Young. Additionally, he pleaded guilty to multiple counts of voyeurism, including secretly recording his wife during private acts more than 200 times between January 2010 and July 2024 for his sexual gratification.
Young further admitted to publishing obscene material, including non-consensual intimate photographs and videos of Ms Young, more than 500 times. However, he denied eight charges, including multiple counts of possession of indecent images of children, with 139 allegedly of the most serious category A, and 82 extreme images.
Background of the Accused
Originally from the upmarket Ash Brake area of Swindon but now living in Enfield, north London, Young was a respected Conservative councillor in Wiltshire for several years, rising to cabinet member status. In 2010, the year the abuse is believed to have begun, he announced he was stepping down to spend more time with his family. Young has been involved in multiple consultancy businesses and describes himself online as an 'experienced business leader', having worked on projects for companies like Aston Martin, Unilever, and BP.
Other Defendants and Trial Date
A total of six people have now been charged in connection with the case. Five other men appeared in court alongside Young, none of whom admitted any offences. Norman Macksoni, 47, of Sharnbrook, Bedfordshire, pleaded not guilty to one count of rape and one count of possession of extreme images. Connor Sanderson-Doyle, 31, from Swindon, denied sexual assault by penetration and sexual touching.
Richard Wilkins, 61, from Swindon, denied rape and sexual touching, while Mohammed Hassan, 37, also from Swindon, pleaded not guilty to a single charge of sexual touching. Dean Hamilton, 47, of Butleigh, Somerset, who faces one count of rape and sexual assault by penetration and two counts of sexual touching, is yet to enter a plea. All five men were granted bail and are due to stand trial on October 5.
Statements from Authorities
Speaking after the hearing, James Foster, Specialist Prosecutor of the Crown Prosecution Service, said: 'Philip Young has pleaded guilty to 48 serious sexual offences committed against his former wife, Joanne Young. We worked closely with Wiltshire Police to build a thorough and compelling case that resulted in him pleading guilty to dozens of offences today.'
Detective Superintendent Geoff Smith added: 'Today's hearing is a significant landmark, which has seen Philip Young admit to dozens of serious sexual offences against Joanne Young. I'd like to pay tribute to Jo for her incredible bravery throughout this process. She continues to be supported by specially trained officers.'
How to Provide Information
Anyone who believes they recognise the 'hairy' man in the released images is urged to contact Wiltshire Police by emailing 2651@wiltshire.police.uk and quoting reference number 54240080286. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. The police emphasise the importance of public assistance in identifying this individual to aid their ongoing investigation.
