PHILLIP DUMMIGAN FROM DOWNEND SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN BRISTOL
| Red Rose Database
Downend Sexual Abuser
In a case that has shocked the local community of Downend and the wider Bristol area, Phillip Dummigan, a man previously residing in Downend, has been sentenced to a decade behind bars for serious sexual offenses involving two young girls. The conviction was handed down at Bristol Crown Court, where it was revealed that Dummigan and his wife had relocated to New Zealand in an attempt to start anew, leaving behind their life in the UK.
However, the past proved inescapable for Dummigan when two victims came forward to authorities, accusing him of inappropriate touching and sexual misconduct. Despite his vehement denial of any wrongdoing, a jury found him guilty of seven separate charges related to sexual abuse. The charges included three counts involving one girl, who was between the ages of eight and ten at the time of the incidents, and four counts concerning a second girl, who was aged five to twelve during the period of abuse.
Throughout the court proceedings, Dummigan sat with his back turned to a crowded public gallery, as Judge Martin Picton addressed him directly. The judge emphasized the profound and lasting impact of Dummigan’s actions, stating, “Both victims have been damaged and suffered long-term consequences. For them, your crimes have produced a life sentence.” The court heard that Dummigan had touched both victims’ private parts, a detail that underscored the severity of the allegations.
One of the victims, who was called to give her victim impact statement, spoke with clarity and composure. She recounted her efforts to alert police and social services about the abuse, only to be dismissed and called a liar. She described the humiliation and the disgusting memories she has carried since, expressing her pain at having to relive her trauma while Dummigan remained free for a period. Her statement highlighted the emotional scars left by his actions and the lack of remorse shown by the offender.
The second victim’s statement was also read aloud in court, revealing that the abuse had a ripple effect on her personal relationships over the years. Her testimony painted a picture of ongoing emotional turmoil caused by the incidents.
During the hearing, Catherine Stock, representing Dummigan, maintained his innocence, noting that he had three months to reflect on his situation. She also mentioned that Dummigan’s wife was in New Zealand, and they maintained contact by phone when permitted. The defense highlighted the loss Dummigan had suffered—his freedom, his home, and his business—and suggested he would have to find a way to move forward despite the conviction.
As part of his sentence, Dummigan was ordered to register as a sex offender for life. Additionally, he was prohibited from working with children or vulnerable adults, a restriction aimed at protecting the community from any potential future harm. The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of sexual abuse and the importance of justice for victims.
However, the past proved inescapable for Dummigan when two victims came forward to authorities, accusing him of inappropriate touching and sexual misconduct. Despite his vehement denial of any wrongdoing, a jury found him guilty of seven separate charges related to sexual abuse. The charges included three counts involving one girl, who was between the ages of eight and ten at the time of the incidents, and four counts concerning a second girl, who was aged five to twelve during the period of abuse.
Throughout the court proceedings, Dummigan sat with his back turned to a crowded public gallery, as Judge Martin Picton addressed him directly. The judge emphasized the profound and lasting impact of Dummigan’s actions, stating, “Both victims have been damaged and suffered long-term consequences. For them, your crimes have produced a life sentence.” The court heard that Dummigan had touched both victims’ private parts, a detail that underscored the severity of the allegations.
One of the victims, who was called to give her victim impact statement, spoke with clarity and composure. She recounted her efforts to alert police and social services about the abuse, only to be dismissed and called a liar. She described the humiliation and the disgusting memories she has carried since, expressing her pain at having to relive her trauma while Dummigan remained free for a period. Her statement highlighted the emotional scars left by his actions and the lack of remorse shown by the offender.
The second victim’s statement was also read aloud in court, revealing that the abuse had a ripple effect on her personal relationships over the years. Her testimony painted a picture of ongoing emotional turmoil caused by the incidents.
During the hearing, Catherine Stock, representing Dummigan, maintained his innocence, noting that he had three months to reflect on his situation. She also mentioned that Dummigan’s wife was in New Zealand, and they maintained contact by phone when permitted. The defense highlighted the loss Dummigan had suffered—his freedom, his home, and his business—and suggested he would have to find a way to move forward despite the conviction.
As part of his sentence, Dummigan was ordered to register as a sex offender for life. Additionally, he was prohibited from working with children or vulnerable adults, a restriction aimed at protecting the community from any potential future harm. The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of sexual abuse and the importance of justice for victims.