PHILLIP HARRISON FROM BROWNEY CONVICTED OF MOLESTATION AND ATTEMPTED RAPE IN KINGSTON-UPON-THAMES

A man hailing from County Durham, specifically from the village of Browney, has been found guilty of serious sexual offenses following a night marked by alcohol and drug consumption. Phillip Harrison, aged 32 and residing on Littlewood Close in Browney, near Durham, faced charges of molestation and attempted rape after an incident involving a woman that took place in Kingston-upon-Thames.

Harrison initially pleaded not guilty to the charges, but after a thorough trial at Kingston-upon-Thames Crown Court, he was convicted unanimously of attempted rape and assault by penetration. The court proceedings revealed disturbing details about his conduct, and he was remanded into custody pending his sentencing, which is scheduled for October 22.

The prosecution, led by Charlotte Newell, outlined how Harrison had persistently communicated with the woman throughout the evening, sending her numerous messages that contained explicit and unwelcome advances. Despite her clear refusals, he continued to pursue her, attempting to kiss her multiple times and making sexual overtures through text messages. These messages included offers of cocaine and suggestions that they cuddle, which added a layer of coercion to his behavior.

The court heard that Harrison's actions escalated when he forcefully entered the woman’s private space. He undressed himself and climbed into her bed despite her protests and efforts to defend herself. The woman recounted waking up to find him in her bed, and she described being assaulted while she was naked. Her account detailed the distress and fear she experienced during the incident.

Following the assault, Harrison left the scene but did not cease his harassment. He continued to send threatening messages and even expressed suicidal thoughts, admitting that he had gone too far. The victim reported the incident to the authorities, which led to Harrison’s arrest three weeks later in London.

Throughout the trial, Harrison maintained a defensive stance, claiming in a statement that he had only attempted to kiss the woman and had not physically touched her in a manner that constituted assault. He expressed shock and disbelief at the accusations, asserting that he was unaware of the extent of his actions or their impact.

The case highlights the serious consequences of misconduct and the importance of accountability, especially for individuals in positions of trust or influence. The court’s verdict underscores the gravity of the offenses committed by Phillip Harrison, a man whose actions have now led to a criminal conviction and a significant legal sentence pending in the near future.