A woman who was allegedly drugged and raped by her ex-husband over a 13-year period has been publicly recognised for her 'extraordinary' bravery as a volunteer search and rescue hero.
Volunteer hailed for bravery in face of personal trauma
Joanne Young, 48, has chosen to waive her legal right to anonymity and be named as the complainant in a case involving more than 60 alleged offences. Her former partner, Philip Young, 49, appeared in court yesterday facing a total of 56 charges. These include multiple counts of rape and administering a substance with intent to stupefy.
It has now been revealed that during the period of the alleged abuse, Joanne was performing courageous voluntary work. In September, she received a chief officer’s commendation from Wiltshire Search and Rescue for an act of exceptional bravery.
Search and rescue heroism on the River Avon
The commendation was awarded for her role in recovering the body of a missing person from the River Avon. Joanne and two fellow volunteers were told a specialist dive team would need ten hours to reach the location. Demonstrating immense dedication, they decided to undertake the recovery themselves.
Chief Constable Catherine Roper stated that Joanne showed "extraordinary dedication, professionalism and humanity in the face of challenging and emotionally demanding circumstances." This public recognition of her courage stands in stark contrast to the private ordeal she was allegedly enduring.
Multiple defendants charged as police hunt seventh man
The alleged offences against Joanne Young span from 2010 to 2023. Police state that at least five other men are accused of attacking her during this time.
The following individuals have been charged in connection with the case:
- Norman Macksoni, 47: one count of rape.
- Dean Hamilton, 47: one count of rape.
- Richard Wilkins, 61: one count of rape.
- Connor Sanderson Doyle, 31: sexual assault by penetration and sexual touching.
- Mohammed Hassan, 37: sexual touching.
All five men have been bailed and will spend Christmas at home ahead of their next hearing at Swindon Crown Court on January 23. With the exception of Dean Hamilton, each defendant covered his face while entering and leaving the magistrates' court.
Authorities have also released images of a seventh man they wish to question regarding an alleged sexual assault on Joanne. The suspect is described as having a large build, distinctive scarring on the back of his head, prominent lips, a hairy body, and balding with short or shaved hair. A crucial identifying feature is a distinctive tattoo on the left side of his chest. The photographs were taken between April and May 2022, when the alleged assault he is linked to is said to have occurred.
