DONCASTER TAXI DRIVER JAILED FOR SEX ATTACKS ON VULNERABLE WOMEN
Derek Bilby, a former Doncaster taxi driver aged 64, has received an 18-year prison sentence after being found guilty of heinous sexual assaults involving two highly vulnerable women he encountered through his taxi service.Over a period of two years, Bilby developed a relationship with the women, both of whom have notable disabilities, and continued to visit their residences, where he groomed and assaulted them.
The victims later told their carers about the abuse, which led to Bilby’s arrest.
A detailed investigation and multiple charges were filed against him in May 2022, culminating in a guilty plea on October 12, 2022, to counts including rape, sexual assault, assault by penetration, and indecent exposure.
Detective Alex Storey stated that the women’s long-term vulnerabilities and limited mobility made them easy targets, and Bilby exploited this by manipulating his way into their homes to commit his crimes repeatedly.
He also mentioned that there is a possibility Bilby targeted other women during his earlier work as a taxi driver in Doncaster and encouraged anyone with worries or possible leads to come forward.
The police began their inquiry in January 2020 following the initial incident report.
Forensic evidence such as DNA and expert testimonies supported the case.
Bilby, formerly of Alexander Street in Bentley, was sentenced at Sheffield Crown Court and will be required to register as a sex offender for life.
