MAN JAILED FOR RAPE OF SCHOOLGIRL AFTER TAXI RANK PICK-UP
A man who raped a vulnerable schoolgirl after offering her a lift home has been jailed for 12 years.Victor Popa, 35, attacked the stranded 14-year-old after picking her up from a taxi rank in Aberdeen in the early hours of January 15, 2023.
The child's account was supported by multiple strands of evidence, including CCTV and text messages brought together by the prosecution.
Medical evidence of an injury caused by significant force, likely inflicted while the girl was unconscious, was also placed before the jury.
Popa, who was not a taxi driver and did not know the child, was found guilty on January 30, 2026 following a trial at the High Court in Edinburgh.
On 18 March 2026, at the same court, Popa was jailed for 12 years.
His name has been added to the sex offenders register indefinitely.
A non-harassment order banning Popa from contacting or attempting to contact the victim was also granted for an indefinite period.
Procurator Fiscal Faye Cook, of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service said: “Violence against women and girls has no place in our society.
This was a predatory and deeply distressing attack on a child who was simply trying to get home safely.
“The evidence presented to the jury showed the careful work of police officers and prosecutors to uncover what happened and to hold Victor Popa to account.
“I want to recognise the courage shown by the young victim and her family throughout the prosecution process.
Their strength has helped bring a dangerous offender to justice.
“The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service will continue to use every tool available to pursue those who target women and girls, and to protect the public from harm.”
