TAXI DRIVER JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON 'CRYING' PASSENGER
A driver of a taxi who was found guilty of sexually assaulting a woman riding in his vehicle has been sentenced to serve two years in prison.Bahaaelden Ibrahim, aged 44, committed the assault in Cardiff on November 7, 2021.
The woman, who had been out in the city center during a Wales rugby international, arranged for a taxi to take her to her boyfriend's house.
While driving her there, Ibrahim, of Blackbirds Way, Old St Mellons, grabbed her wrist, exposed himself, and forced her to perform a sexual act.
During the sentencing hearing at Cardiff Crown Court on Thursday (April 18), it was revealed that the victim began crying uncontrollably, to which Ibrahim told her to stop.
The woman described herself as "tired, tipsy, and sleepy" when she was picked up.
After the assault, she exited the vehicle and continued her walk home.
The prosecutor, Alex Orndal, stated that the victim reported the incident to police the next day, resulting in Ibrahim's arrest.
Ibrahim denied the allegations, claiming he was assaulted by the woman.
A trial at Swansea Crown Court found him guilty of sexual assault.
In her personal statement, the victim described her background as an intelligent, successful individual with a loving partner and family, stating that the incident had affected her confidence and sense of trust.
She emphasized that her intoxication at the time did not justify the assault and expressed her concern about Ibrahim's potential danger to other women.
Representing Ibrahim, Susan Ferrier indicated that her client had no prior allegations and maintained his innocence.
She added that he is married with three children and supports family members in Sudan.
Judge Caroline Rees KC commented that the victim was simply out enjoying her evening and should have been able to trust the driver to ensure her safety.
She highlighted the breach of trust involved in the crime and sentenced Ibrahim to two years in prison, along with a five-year restraining order, 10 years of sex offender registration, and other requirements.
