"Prolific" sex offender jailed after charity shop exposure
Philip Harding admitted to the offence in court
A 72 year old man described as a "prolific" sex offender has been jailed for a year.
Philip Harding, of the Lye, Seend, admitted to indecently exposing himself in a shop in Devizes earlier this year.
On 31st May, Harding exposed and pleasured himself in a charity shop in the Brittox, in front of a father and his young daughter.
He was later identified and arrested before being jailed during a hearing at Salisbury Crown Court on 18th July.
A sexual harm prevention order (SHPO) was also imposed for 10 years, which will place restrictions upon Harding.
Local Crime Investigator Shonna O’Harney, based in the Volume Crime Team, said: “Harding is a prolific offender and we are aware of the community concern around him.
“Indecent exposure is a serious offence with potentially significant impacts upon victims.
“We have also seen that it can also lead to more serious contact sexual offences and violence.
“I’m pleased that the courts have recognised the severity of Harding’s offending and imposed a custodial sentence, plus a SHPO to protect the public.
“I’d also like to thank the victim for coming forward and reporting the incident to us. Support from the community is absolutely vital to allow us to investigate these types of offences.”