Yorkshire child rapist dubbed 'one of the most evil' abused kids for decades

A prolific rapist has been jailed for 28 years for committing 68 offences against five children over several decades.

Keith Phillips, 64, of Huntington in York, was found guilty of rape, indecent assault, sexual assault of a girl under 13, and sexual activity with a child following an extensive investigation by North Yorkshire Police.

Phillips, who showed no remorse, was described by the judge as one of the most evil defendants he had ever encountered.

Detective Constable Alyson Thompson, who led the investigation, said: "The judge described Phillips as one of the most evil offenders he'd ever dealt with, and I would echo that. His lack of remorse after decades of unimaginable abuse shows the true extent of his wickedness."

"It's difficult to comprehend the magnitude of Phillips' offending and the irreparable damage he has done to his victims' lives. I have nothing but praise and respect for their immense courage in coming forward - it's helped us build a case that has put an atrocious individual behind bars, potentially for the rest of his life. He will be 82 years old before he is eligible for parole."

Det Constable Thompson urged anyone who has suffered recent or non-recent abuse to come forward and seek support.

"We have support services and specially-trained officers to help people consider their options and work through what has happened to them. We are here to help, regardless of how long ago the offences happened."