Police investigation to feature on Crimewatch Roadshow

The case of serial sex offender Phillip Blackwell, one of the biggest investigations led by Warwickshire Police, is set to feature on Crimewatch Roadshow today.

The 56-year-old from Cornwall was sentenced to life in prison in July after admitting to 31 sexual offences against nine females in three counties over three decades.

Warwickshire police says Blackwell was responsible for five sex attacks in Nuneaton and the south of Birmingham in the late 90s, which formed part of Operation Fairway.

His offences came to light in 2019 after he was arrested by Devon and Cornwall Police as part of a rape investigation in their force area.

Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Teresa McKenna said: "Operation Fairway was one of the biggest investigations the force has ever been involved with.

"Since Blackwell’s first offence in 1997 many officers have been part of the investigation, which concluded in July when Blackwell was given a life sentence.

“I would like to pay special tribute to the victims who assisted us throughout the investigation. They all showed immense courage, resilience and fortitude during the investigation and deserve praise and recognition for their efforts to help ensure Blackwell was convicted.

“I hope the outcome of this case sent a strong message to all victims of sexual offences and gives them the confidence that we will thoroughly investigate reports of sexual offences and work tirelessly to bring offenders to justice irrespective of how long has passed. Time is no barrier to justice.”