BLACK CAB DRIVER JAILED FOR SEX ATTACKS ON SLEEPING WOMEN
David Perry, 52 years old, targeted women in their twenties after they had been out drinking and socialising before entering his cab.At Snaresbrook Crown Court, the court was told that Perry told police he was dealing with "high hormone levels".
Perry, a taxi driver from Bow in east London with 25 years of experience, admitted to four charges, including attempted rape and sexual assault.
The crimes occurred in the early morning hours, involving women in their twenties who had just entered his vehicle and then fallen asleep.
His DNA evidence matched samples from both assaults, which took place in north London in January 2013 and in east London last May.
After his arrest, Perry explained to police that he was worried about his behavior and had sought medical help for high hormone levels following a breakup.
During sentencing, Judge John Lafferty described the victims as having suffered "serious psychological harm".
He also warned that Perry posed "a very significant risk" to other women if he remained at large.
As Perry left the courtroom, he smiled and gestured to his family and friends in the gallery.
On the first day scheduled for his trial in February, Perry pleaded guilty to one count of attempted rape, one count of assault by penetration, and one count of sexual assault against each woman.
Prosecutor Peter Clement told the court that the victims' intoxication made them especially vulnerable, and stressed that they still deserved safety and respect.
He accused Perry of exploiting their vulnerability for sexual pleasure.
Officials noted that Perry had been cleared of other similar cases but appealed for additional victims to come forward.
He has been prohibited from driving taxis again and will be subject to an ongoing sexual harm prevention order indefinitely.
