Wiltshire Police Continue Nationwide Hunt for Seventh Suspect Linked to Alleged Sexual Abuse Case Involving Former Tory Councillor in Swindon

Detectives are stepping up efforts to trace a seventh man linked to a disturbing case involving a former Conservative councillor accused of drugging and sexually abusing his wife over more than a decade.

Wiltshire Police say the unidentified suspect could be living anywhere in the UK and remain determined to find him.

Crimewatch Appeal Still Active

Images of the man, described as large-set, were first released earlier this year during a Crimewatch appeal.

Officers reiterated this week that identifying him remains a priority, stressing that public support is crucial to moving the investigation forward.

Wiltshire Police confirmed investigators are “very keen” to trace the individual and have urged people nationwide to review the images again and come forward with any information, no matter how small it may seem.

Victim Speaks Out About Lasting Trauma

The alleged victim, Joanne Young, has chosen to waive her legal right to anonymity, allowing her name to be published.

In a powerful statement shared as part of the appeal, the 48-year-old described the ongoing psychological toll she says the abuse has taken on her life.

“I jump constantly at noises, movements, and even shadows,” she said.

“I wake up with recurring nightmares that someone is there touching me.

I’m screaming, but no sound comes out and nobody comes to save me.”

She added that survival has become a daily challenge, saying she simply hopes each new day will be better than the last.

Detectives Praise Courage and Call for Help

At the time of the appeal, Detective Sergeant Smith publicly commended Ms Young for her bravery in speaking out.

He acknowledged that the released images may be distressing for some viewers but said their publication was necessary.

“We appreciate the graphic nature of these images and that they may be triggering,” he said.

“However, we need the public’s help to identify this man.”

He added that police do not know whether the suspect is based in Swindon or outside the county, which is why the appeal is being shared as widely as possible.

Former Councillor Faces Dozens of Charges

Ms Young’s former husband, business consultant Philip Young, has appeared in court accused of 56 sexual offences against her.

The charges include multiple counts of rape and relate to alleged abuse spanning 13 years.

Six additional men have also appeared before Swindon Magistrates’ Court in connection with the investigation.

Other Defendants Named in Court

Those charged include Norman Macksoni, 47, Dean Hamilton, 47, Connor Sanderson-Doyle, 31, Richard Wilkins, 61, and Mohammed Hassan, 37.

They face a range of serious allegations including rape, sexual penetration, sexual touching and possession of extreme images.

All charges relate to the same long-running investigation.

Description of the Unidentified Man

Police believe the images of the remaining suspect were taken between April and May 2022.

He is wanted in connection with what officers describe as a “serious sexual assault.”

He is described as having scarring on the back of his head, prominent lips, a hairy body, and balding hair that was short or shaved at the time.

Investigators say he also had a distinctive tattoo on the left side of his chest.

How to Share Information Safely

Anyone who recognises the man or believes they may have information is urged to contact police by calling 101 and quoting reference number 54240080286.

Those who prefer to remain anonymous can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Police say even the smallest detail could be vital in identifying the final suspect and bringing the investigation closer to a conclusion.

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