A major court case is set to begin today involving six men charged with a series of sexual offences against a woman from Swindon over more than a decade.
Charges Spanning 13 Years
Philip Young, 49, formerly of Swindon, faces a total of 56 charges relating to alleged offences against his former wife, Joanne Young, 48. Wiltshire Police confirmed the charges cover a period between 2010 and 2023.
The extensive list of allegations against Young includes multiple counts of rape. He is also charged with administering a substance to overpower for sexual activity, voyeurism, and possession of indecent and extreme images.
Five Other Defendants Named
In a significant development, five other men have been charged with separate sexual offences against the same victim. All six are due to appear at Swindon Magistrates' Court.
The other accused men are:
- Norman Macksoni, 47, of Sharnbrook, Bedfordshire, charged with one count of rape and possession of extreme images.
- Dean Hamilton, 47, of no fixed abode, charged with rape, sexual assault by penetration, and two counts of sexual touching.
- Conner Sanderson Doyle, 31, of Swindon, charged with sexual assault by penetration and sexual touching.
- Richard Wilkins, 61, of Swindon, charged with one count of rape and sexual touching.
- Mohammed Hassan, 37, of Swindon, charged with sexual touching.
Victim Waives Legal Anonymity
In a notable move, the victim, Joanne Young, has chosen to waive her automatic legal right to lifelong anonymity. This right is granted under the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 1976.
Detective Superintendent Geoff Smith of Wiltshire Police praised her courage. "This is a significant update in what is a complex and extensive investigation," he said. "She has been supported by specially trained officers from the beginning... and she has made the decision following multiple discussions with officers and support services."
The police have emphasised the scale and complexity of the inquiry, which has led to this multiple-defendant court appearance.
