Philip Young is also accused of possessing indecent images of children

Philip Young (inset, credit Pracedo) and Swindon Town Hall (credit Mewwiii via Wikimedia Commons)

An Enfield man has been charged with 56 sexual offences including drugging and raping his ex-wife and possessing indecent images of children.

Philip Young, aged 49, is a former Conservative councillor in Swindon, Wiltshire, but now lives in Amberley Road, Bush Hill Park.

The charges against Young include multiple counts of rape, administering a substance with intent to stupefy/overpower to allow sexual activity, voyeurism, possession of indecent images of children and possession of extreme images.

Wiltshire Police confirmed yesterday (Monday 22nd) that the victim had waived her legal right to anonymity ahead of court proceedings taking place today (Tuesday 23rd) and can be named as Joanne Young, aged 48.

Joanne had asked to be named and is being supported by specially trained officers and partner agencies.

Five other men have also been charged with offences against Joanne and were also due to appear in court today.

The alleged offences took place between 2010 and 2023.

Detective Superintendent Geoff Smith said: “This is a significant update in what is a complex and extensive investigation.

“The victim in this case, Joanne, has taken the decision to waive her automatic legal right to anonymity.

“She has been supported by specially trained officers from the beginning of the process and she has made the decision following multiple discussions with officers and support services.”

James Foster, specialist prosecutor at the Crown Prosecution Service said: “Our prosecutors have worked to establish that there is sufficient evidence to charge and that it is in the public interest to pursue criminal proceedings.

“We have worked closely with Wiltshire Police as they carried out their investigation.”

Anyone with any information regarding this case is asked to call police on 101 quoting 54240080286 or to report online through the Wiltshire Police website. Information can also be left anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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