Canterbury, UK – Patrick Howlett, 58, from Kent, has been sentenced to 30 years in prison after funding the horrific sexual abuse of children in the Philippines. The National Crime Agency (NCA) investigation revealed Howlett sent nearly £56,000 to facilitators—including a mother who abused her own children—in exchange for explicit images and videos.
Key Details of the Case:
- Six Years of Abuse: One victim, abused from ages 8 to 14, appeared in 1,277 images found on Howlett’s devices.
- Payments for Abuse: Howlett made 796 transactions totaling £55,918 between 2014–2021, directing the abuse of at least 19 children.
- Global Collaboration: The NCA worked with Filipino authorities to identify and safeguard victims, with facilitators under investigation abroad.
- Guilty Plea: Howlett admitted his crimes early in his trial, avoiding a scheduled January 2025 court date.
Justice Served
Judge at Canterbury Crown Court condemned Howlett’s “breath-taking lack of regard for the sanctity of childhood.” He will also face an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).
Statements from Authorities:
- NCA’s Adam Priestley: “Howlett is a dangerous predator who exploited vulnerable children. We will relentlessly pursue offenders fueling this abuse.”
- CPS Prosecutor Julia McSorley: “Despite his attempts to hide behind ‘charity,’ the evidence was overwhelming. No child should suffer such horrors.”
Ongoing Efforts
The NCA and Philippine law enforcement continue to target offenders and rescue victims in international child exploitation cases.
Why This Matters:
This case highlights the global reach of child exploitation and the critical role of cross-border law enforcement collaboration. Howlett’s sentencing sends a strong message: abusers will face justice, no matter where crimes occur.
Tags:
child abuse, NCA, Philippines, sexual exploitation, crime news, justice, law enforcement, sentencing, child protection, UK courts,
