Man Sentenced to Seven Years for Child Sexual Abuse

Phillip Roland Calingasan, 53, was sentenced to seven years in prison at Durham Crown Court today.

He was found guilty when he appeared before the court on 25 February, of eight counts of sexual activity with a child, voyeurism, sexual assault and engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child.

An investigation into historical child sexual abuse by Cleveland Police's CAVA Team (Child Abuse and Vulnerable Adults) focused on two now female adults, after the initial report was made by a concerned third party in the summer of 2020. 

Detective Constable Andrea Merriott, the investigating officer said: “These women have been exceptionally brave in coming forward to report what had happened to them. 

“It can be extremely difficult for victims to come forward and tell their story, and these two showed great courage in order to protect others from their abuser.

“Throughout the process, the women were supported by specialist officers, and the investigation team were able to gather the evidence required to secure a prosecution.

“I hope that now he has been sentenced, the women can begin the process of rebuilding their lives.

“If you are a victim of historical abuse and feel ready to report this to police, please call 101.”