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A man has pleaded guilty to several offenses of child sexual abuse following a Met investigation

A man has pleaded guilty to several offenses of child sexual abuse following a Met investigation

A 28-year-old man pleaded guilty to a series of brutal child sex offenses after Metropolitan Police were confronted with overwhelming evidence.

Sam Phillips (07/04/96), 28, of Hillcrum Road, Sutton, appeared at Harrow Crown Court on October 30 where he admitted 38 offenses committed between December 2023 and February 2024.

His offenses against six vulnerable children, including more than 20 counts of soliciting or inciting a child to commit sexual acts, as well as other charges of having sexual contact with a child and making indecent images of children

The Met’s investigation highlighted the tireless dedication of the officers involved, whose swift action and relentless pursuit of justice ensured Phillips could not continue his reign of abuse. Their work revealed the extent of his crimes, providing key evidence that led to his guilty plea and ensuring that he would be brought to justice.

Chief Superintendent Sarah Leach, who leads police in north west London, where the investigation took place, said:

“Phillips is the worst predator, preying on innocent, vulnerable children for his own pleasure. The scale of his crimes is appalling and horrific and no child should ever have to go through the trauma these little victims have suffered.

“I want to express my deep gratitude to the children and their families who had the courage to come forward. It is impossible to imagine the pain and fear they must have endured, but their bravery allowed us to bring this dangerous man to justice.

“I am delighted that Phillips pleaded guilty, it is a testament to the strength and diligence of the case built by Met officers. This result reflects our unwavering commitment to bringing sex offenders to justice and ensuring that victims are heard and protected.”

The investigation began in late January 2024 when officers were approached with serious concerns about the welfare of a child who had potentially been sexually exploited. Met detectives in north-west London immediately launched an investigation.

Through thorough investigative work, police discovered that two other children were also being cared for by Phillips. He manipulated these children online by sending them money in exchange for their inappropriate images. Detectives quickly traced the payments to Phillips’ account and he was arrested on Monday, March 11, 2024. He was initially charged with 11 offenses involving three children, further analysis of his phone and financial records revealed more victims, bringing the total to 38 charges he was found guilty of.

Acting Detective Sergeant Maria Giannakidou, the officer on the case, said:

“We appreciate the incredible bravery of the survivors who came forward. It is because of their courage that we are able to make these very serious allegations. Their power to share experiences is invaluable in bringing perpetrators to justice, and we are committed to ensuring that victims’ voices are heard.”

Victim support

The Metropolitan Police remains steadfast in its commitment to tackling child sexual exploitation and ensuring that every victim receives the care, justice and support they deserve. Officers continue to work closely with specialist services to provide comprehensive support to children and families affected by these crimes, ensuring they are never alone in their recovery.

Support and assistance can be obtained from a number of agencies and charities:

  • National Association for Victims of Childhood Abuse Helpline: 0808 801 0331
  • Rape crisis 08085002222
  • Children’s line 0800 1111
  • National Rape and Sexual Assault Helpline 0808 802 9999
  • Survivors UK 0203 598 3898 [email protected].
  • Samaritans 116 123 [email protected]

Such crimes can be reported online, by phone or in person to the police by calling 101 or, in an emergency, 999.