Taxi Driver Jailed for 15 Years After Turning Ride into Nightmare
A taxi driver has been sentenced to 15 years behind bars for raping a woman he was supposed to drive home safely. David Greaves, 42, betrayed the trust of his passenger by taking her to a secluded cemetery instead of her home, before attacking her.
Trusted Driver Turns Predator in Newton Aycliffe
Greaves picked up the intoxicated woman after a night out in Newton Aycliffe. Her friend had specifically told him, “Make sure she gets home safely; she’s had a lot to drink.” But instead of honouring that request, Greaves drove her to a remote cemetery car park and raped her. What should have been a short 5-10 minute trip dragged on for a chilling hour, the court heard.
The next day, the victim woke up battered and bruised, with no clear memory of what happened. When confronted, Greaves confessed to having sex with her but insisted it was consensual. A Durham Crown Court jury rejected his claim, finding him unanimously guilty.
Victim Speaks Out: “He Destroyed My Life”
“As a taxi driver, he was in a position of trust. His one job that night was to get me home safely while I was drunk. Instead, he raped me.”
“He changed my life forever. I suffer panic attacks, depression, and sleepless nights. I feel worthless, anxious, and terrified of what might happen next.”
Court Condemns Driver’s ‘Delusional’ Denial
Prosecutor Paul Cleasby told the court Greaves exploited the victim’s vulnerable state by diverting her to a deserted spot to carry out the assault. Defence barrister Stuart Duke said Greaves remains innocent but bleak about his future.
Judge Jo Kidd slammed Greaves’ actions and refusal to face reality. She said: “No one will ever know what you did to her in that taxi in the dark. It’s a clear source of lifelong trauma for your victim.”
Police Praise Victim’s Bravery and Issue Plea to Others
Detective Constable Dave Taylor of South Durham CID, who led the investigation, praised the victim’s courage. “Greaves abused his position as a trusted taxi driver for his own gratification.”
He added, “By denying the crime, Greaves forced her to relive the trauma in court, adding to her suffering. I commend her bravery throughout.”
Taylor urged other victims to come forward: “If you’ve been raped or sexually assaulted, please speak out. We will listen and believe you. Specially trained officers are ready to support you every step of the way.”
