Man imprisoned having pleaded guilty to sexual offences against children

A Stevenage man has been jailed for 10 years having pleaded guilty to sexual offences against children.

Colin Phillips, aged 56, was arrested on Thursday 3 November and charged with the following offences:

• Rape of a child under 13.
• Three counts of sexual assault of a child under 13.
• Four counts of causing or inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity.
• Three counts of making indecent images of a child.

The offences took place between February 2022 and July 2022.

Phillips appeared at St Albans Crown Court yesterday (Thursday 9 February) where he was given a total custody sentence of 14 years (10 years custodial and four years licence). Additionally, he was added to the sex offenders’ register and placed under a sexual harm prevention order.

Detective Sergeant Dan Osborne, of the Joint Child Protection Investigation Team (JCPIT), said: “A dangerous offender has been removed from the community and put behind bars for despicable behaviour towards children.

“I’d like to highlight the bravery of the victims and families who have supported the investigation to help bring Phillips to justice.

“Anyone who has been a victim of child abuse, or thinks a child is being abused, should contact police immediately and a report can be made in confidence.”

You can report online, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.

In addition, anyone in Hertfordshire who has experienced sexual abuse or sexual violence can contact the Herts Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) for practical and emotional support.

The centre can arrange face-to-face support, sexual health referrals, and provide forensic medical examinations for those who want them.

To contact Herts SARC, call the 24/7 helpline on 0808 178 4448, email their team or visit their website (opens in new window).