A 66-year-old British man has been slammed with a seven-year jail term after trying to spy for Russia. Howard Phillips was caught out by undercover Counter Terrorism officers in London.
Snared by Undercover Cops
Phillips believed he was dealing with Russian intelligence agents. Instead, they were British undercover officers. Over several meetings, Phillips offered to share sensitive info on a former cabinet minister and to provide logistical support for Russian espionage.
He even handed over personal details of the UKs then Secretary of State for Defencesomeone he knew personally as his local MPand claimed he could move about undetected and travel anywhere without raising suspicion.
Risking Prison for No Pay-Off
Commander Dominic Murphy, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, warned: This case shows what happens if you think spying for Russia is an easy payday. Its not. In fact, most dont get a penny and pay with their freedom instead.
Murphy added that recent convictions under the National Security Act 2023, including others like Dylan Earl and Jake Reeves, show how seriously UK authorities take such treachery.
Undercover Ops Expose Plot
Phillips was arrested on 16 May 2024 in central London after arranging a meeting with who he thought were Russian spies. The Crown Prosecution Service charged him on 23 May under Section 3 of the National Security Act.
Emails, social media chats, and face-to-face meetings revealed his eagerness to work for Russia and offer insider info. He even said he was applying for a UK Border Force role with Home Office security clearance, aiming to use that position to his advantage.
Jurys Verdict and Sentence
After a two-week trial at Winchester Crown Court, Phillips was found guilty on 22 July 2024. On 6 November, the judge handed down a hefty seven-year prison sentence.
Trying to spy for Russia smashed his freedomand proved once again the UK wont tolerate those who betray the nation.
