Philip Young, 49, is accused of 56 sexual offences, including rape and administering a substance to overpower his ex-wife, Joanne Young, over a period alleged to span more than 13 years (2010–2023). Joanne Young has waived her anonymity. Five other men, aged 31–61, face related charges; some have pleaded not guilty while others have not yet entered pleas. Wiltshire Police described the inquiry as "complex and extensive," and the case remains ongoing at Winchester Crown Court.
UK Man Accused of Drugging and Raping Ex-Wife Over 13 Years to Face Court; Five Others Also Charged
London — A British man is due to appear at Winchester Crown Court accused of drugging and sexually abusing his former wife over more than 13 years, alongside five other men who are also charged in connection with the alleged abuse.
Court Appearance and Charges
Philip Young, 49, faces 56 counts of sexual offences relating to alleged abuse of his ex-wife, Joanne Young, 48. The charges include rape and administering a substance with intent to stupefy or overpower to enable sexual activity. Prosecutors say the alleged offences occurred between 2010 and 2023.
Co-defendants and Pleas
Five other men, aged between 31 and 61, are also accused of various sexual offences against the same woman. Some have entered not-guilty pleas while others have yet to enter pleas:
- Norman Macksoni, 47 — pleaded not guilty to one count of rape and to possession of extreme images.
- Dean Hamilton, 47 — pleaded not guilty to one count of rape, sexual assault by penetration and two counts of sexual touching.
- Connor Sanderson-Doyle, 31 — charged with sexual assault and sexual touching; no plea yet entered.
- Richard Wilkins, 61 — charged with rape and sexual touching; no plea yet entered.
- Mohammed Hassan, 37 — charged with sexual touching; no plea yet entered.
Additional Allegations and Background
Other charges against Philip Young include voyeurism, possession of indecent images of children and possession of extreme images. The BBC reported that Young previously served as a local government councillor for the Conservative Party between 2007 and 2010.
Wiltshire Police Detective Superintendent Geoff Smith described the investigation in December as "complex and extensive."
Joanne Young has waived her legal right to anonymity. Prosecutors and coverage have drawn parallels with a 2024 French case in which a victim similarly chose to waive anonymity to raise awareness of sexual violence.
Young was remanded in custody after a December hearing and has not yet entered a plea to the full slate of charges. The case remains ongoing as the defendants prepare to appear before the court.
Help us improve.
