Police have launched a public appeal to identify an unknown man as part of a major investigation into serious sexual offences against a woman whose ex-husband, a former Conservative councillor, has admitted to drugging and raping her with other men over more than a decade.
Investigation into Former Councillor's Crimes
Former Tory councillor Philip Young, 49, of Enfield in north London, has pleaded guilty to 48 offences against his ex-wife Joanne Young, who has waived her right to anonymity. The charges include 11 counts of rape and administering a substance with intent to stupefy, alongside seven counts of assault by penetration, four counts of sexual touching, and voyeurism by recording Ms Young without her consent on at least 200 occasions between 2010 and 2024.
Mr Young further admitted to publishing an obscene article, involving non-consensual intimate photographs and videos of Ms Young, on at least 500 occasions during the same period. However, he denied three counts of possessing indecent images of children, one charge of possessing prohibited images of children, and four counts of possessing extreme pornography.
Police Appeal for Public Assistance
Wiltshire Police are now seeking to identify a man described as being of 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. Images of the man were taken around April to May 2022, according to the force.
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."
He 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. It is unknown whether he lives in Swindon or from outside the county, which is why we request that this is shared as widely as possible to assist our bid to identify him."
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
In this investigation, six people in total have been charged with serious sexual offences against Joanne Young. Five other men have appeared in court accused of sexual offences against Ms Young, 48, and were released on bail for a further case management hearing scheduled for 5 May.
The police appeal has been made with the pre-sight and support of the victim, Joanne Young. Anyone who recognises the man is urged to email 2651@wiltshire.police.uk and quote reference number 54240080286. Information can also be left anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
This case highlights the extensive nature of the crimes committed, with the police emphasising the importance of community cooperation in bringing all involved parties to justice.
