British Man Guilty in MI5 Russian Spy Sting

Howard Phillips, a 65-year-old retired former City worker from Harlow, Essex, was found guilty at Winchester Crown Court of attempting to spy for men he believed were Russian intelligence agents, who were actually undercover British intelligence officers. The conviction followed an MI5 sting operation and a unanimous jury verdict after four hours of deliberation. Phillips offered sensitive information about then-defence secretary Grant Shapps, including his home address and private plane location, and offered logistical support. Authorities stated that Phillips, motivated by financial desperation and a personal fantasy of being like James Bond, posed no evidence of pro-Russian sympathies. The case was highlighted as a warning to others considering similar actions. Sentencing has been adjourned until the autumn.