PHILLIP LEWIS FROM CARTERTON SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE IN WEST OXFORDSHIRE

In a harrowing case that has shocked the community of Carterton and the wider West Oxfordshire area, Phillip Lewis, aged 41, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being found guilty of a series of heinous sexual offenses committed against a young girl over a period of five years.

During the trial at Oxford Crown Court, prosecutors detailed the disturbing pattern of abuse inflicted by Lewis, which included multiple instances of sexual assault, rape, and acts of a sexual nature performed in the presence of the child victim. The offences took place primarily in the early 2010s, within the confines of West Oxfordshire, with the victim, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, enduring a prolonged campaign of exploitation.

The young girl, who was unable to be named publicly, bravely provided a recorded police interview in which she recounted the repeated abuse she suffered at the hands of Lewis. She described feeling 'disgusting' as a result of the acts and expressed her confusion and fear during the ordeal. The victim explained that, as a vulnerable child, she often felt that the abuse was somehow acceptable or inevitable, believing that speaking out might lead to punishment or blame.

She recounted that the abuse was frequent, happening 'a lot' and on numerous occasions, including instances where Lewis would perform sexual acts in front of her and even orally rape her. The court heard that Lewis would simulate intercourse with the girl and engage in sexual activity in her presence, actions that caused profound trauma to the young victim.

Despite Lewis's protests of innocence and his claims of being 'disgusted by the things being said about him,' the jury at Oxford Crown Court found him guilty of all charges. The verdict was delivered after the court reviewed evidence including the victim’s detailed account and a police interview recording.

In a display of courage, the victim attended the sentencing hearing, facing her abuser in court. However, no personal victim statement was read out during the proceedings. Judge Maria Lamb sentenced Lewis to a total of 14 years in prison, emphasizing the severity of his crimes. Additionally, Lewis was ordered to serve an extended license period of one year upon release.

Furthermore, he is required to register as a sex offender, remain subject to a lifelong sexual harm prevention order, and pay a statutory victim surcharge. The case has left a lasting impact on the community of Carterton, highlighting the importance of vigilance and support for victims of child abuse in West Oxfordshire.