Philip Spriggs

Philip Spriggs, a 51-year-old man from Oxford, has been sentenced to 17 years in prison for a series of grave sexual offences committed against two young victims over a seven-year period. The offences, which occurred in the Headington area of Oxford between 2007 and 2014, involved repeated abuse that profoundly impacted the lives of the children involved.

At Oxford Crown Court, Spriggs was found guilty on 20 charges following a trial in April. The convictions included 11 counts of rape, two counts of assault of a child under 13, one charge of attempted rape, two charges of sexual assault of a child under 13, two counts of causing a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity, one charge of assault by penetration, and one count of making indecent photos. These acts demonstrate a pattern of sustained sexual exploitation and abuse targeting vulnerable minors.

Spriggs was arrested and charged in October of the previous year, leading to the trial where the bravery of the victims was pivotal. Detective Sergeant Tracey Shepherd of Thames Valley Police commended the victims, stating: 'The victims in this case have been very brave at speaking out against their abuser. They can now begin to rebuild their lives knowing they do not have to suffer further abuse.' The court imposed an additional seven years on licence following his release, ensuring extended supervision, and placed him on the sex offenders' register for life.

This case, reported by the BBC, highlights the ongoing efforts by Thames Valley Police to combat child sexual abuse. The offences were uncovered through the victims' courage in coming forward, underscoring the importance of reporting such crimes to authorities.