Police watched Philip Westh's house for hours before arrest

Police maintained surveillance on Philip Westh's home for several hours before his arrest in April 2023. Westh was suspected of kidnapping a 13-year-old girl near Kirkerup, Slagelse. The observation began shortly after police identified him as a potential perpetrator on April 16, 2023, and continued for over five hours before his apprehension.

Chief Inspector Lars Harvest of the South Zealand and Lolland-Falster Police stated that the observation was deemed the best approach to secure and clarify the case at the time. During the 27 hours she was held captive following her abduction, the 13-year-old girl endured severe and humiliating abuse. The court determined that Westh intended to kill her.

In June 2024, Philip Westh received a life sentence. The conviction included crimes against the 13-year-old girl and numerous other serious offenses. His sentence also encompasses the murder of 17-year-old Emilie Meng and an assault on a 15-year-old boarding school student.

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I can only say that the assessment was that this was the best way to secure and clarify the case.