Wiltshire Police have released images of a man they want to identify in connection with the investigation into sexual offences against Joanne Young. The "continued" appeal was issued this afternoon, January 23, after a hearing at Winchester Crown Court during which Ms Young’s ex-husband, Philip Young, pleaded guilty to 48 out of 56 charges - including rape - over a 13-year period.
The Wiltshire Police appeal released following the former Tory councillor’s guilty pleas included five images of a bald man the force said were taken around April to May 2022. The force described the suspect as a man of “a large build, hairy, with scarring on the back of his head, prominent lips, short or shaved hair, and a distinctive tattoo on the left side of his chest”.
The force said in the appeal: "We are continuing to appeal to the public for help in identifying this man in connection with the ongoing investigation in Swindon, in which six people – including Philip Young – have been charged with a number of serious sexual offences against Philip’s ex-wife, Joanne."
Police said it is unclear whether the man lives in Swindon or whether he travelled from further afield.
Senior investigating officer, Detective Superintendent Geoff Smith, said: “This is a significant investigation in which several suspects have appeared in court charged with various serious sexual offences.
“This man remains unknown and we remain really keen to identify and speak with him in connection with the case.
“We appreciate the graphic nature of these images and that they may be triggering to some people, however, we need the public’s help to identify this man.
“It is unknown whether he lives in Swindon or from outside the county, which is why we request that this is shared as widely as possible to assist our bid to identify him.
“This appeal has once again been made with the pre-sight and support of the victim, Joanne Young, who has waived her right to anonymity.”
The force urged anyone who recognises the man to email 2651@wiltshire.police.uk and quote reference number 54240080286, or anonymously leave information with Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
