Phillip Edward Derham

In 2016, Phillip Edward Derham, then aged 39, carried out a series of sexual offences against two young girls in the UK. One victim was under the age of 10, while the other was under 16. Derham engaged in sexual activity with both children and further exploited the elder girl by encouraging her to send him indecent images of herself. These actions were described in official government records as paedophilic behaviour that significantly damaged the lives of the victims.

Derham was initially convicted and sentenced at Swindon Crown Court to an extended sentence of 7 years, comprising 4 years and 6 months' imprisonment followed by a 2 years and 6 months' extended licence period. However, the Attorney General, Jeremy Wright QC MP, reviewed the case and referred it to the Court of Appeal under the unduly lenient sentence scheme, arguing that the punishment was insufficient given the severity of the offences against vulnerable children.

On 4 May 2018, the Court of Appeal agreed with the referral and increased Derham's sentence to a total of 11 years. This consisted of 8 years' immediate imprisonment and a 3-year extended licence period. The decision was published by the Attorney General's Office on GOV.UK, highlighting the importance of appropriate sentencing in child sex offence cases.

Commenting on the outcome, Attorney General Jeremy Wright stated: 'I am pleased that the Court of Appeal has agreed that Derham’s sentence was too low. Two children’s lives have been significantly damaged, and I hope this increased sentence can bring some comfort to them and their families.' This case underscores the UK's commitment to reviewing and enhancing sentences for sexual exploitation of minors, as detailed in the official press release from the Attorney General's Office under the 2016 to 2019 May Conservative government.