Predatory Taxi Driver Jailed for Rape and Kidnapping in Plymouth
Yuseab Woldeab, 27, from Plymouth’s Wilton Street, has been slammed with jail after being found guilty of two counts of rape and one of kidnapping at Plymouth Crown Court.
Horrifying Attack on Vulnerable Woman
The victim, a woman in her twenties, was out drinking with friends on Sunday, April 24. In the early hours of Monday, April 25, she left a friend’s house alone, heavily intoxicated.
CCTV footage reveals the chilling moments before the attack. The woman is seen staggering along Union Street when a three-door Ford Fiesta, registered to Woldeab, drives past her. The vehicle then circles back, pulling up next to her at around 4am.
Woldeab posed as a taxi driver and offered her a ride home. The victim, blacking out from alcohol, got into the front passenger seat before the door was even closed.
Kidnapped, Raped, and Left to Escape
Instead of taking her home, Woldeab drove her to his Wilton Street flat. There, he raped her before leaving the room. Seizing the moment, the victim fled the house.
Back at her own place, she messaged a friend about the ordeal and called the police the next day. She did not know who her attacker was or where she had been taken.
Swift Justice After Bravery and Police Work
Detectives sprang into action and arrested Woldeab within 30 hours of the report. He was charged with all offences.
“This was a truly horrifying and disturbing crime,” said DS Chris Kinski of the Sexual Offences Investigation Team. “Woldeab targeted a vulnerable, intoxicated woman. He took full advantage of her state, having clearly been prowling for a victim.”
“I thank the victim for her incredible bravery. We understand how hard it was to come forward. But we take every report seriously and are committed to supporting survivors.”
“I hope this sentencing brings her some closure so she can move forward with strength. We encourage anyone suffering in silence to speak out. You will be believed and supported.”
Rebecca Sutherland, Senior Crown Prosecutor for CPS South West, added: “This shocking case involved a cruel attack on a vulnerable young woman. Despite his pleas of not guilty, the evidence and victim’s courage secured a conviction on all charges.”
“The CPS is working closely with police to improve rape investigations and ensure every victim sees justice.”
