Sheffield taxi driver jailed for two counts of raping 18 year old passenger
Updated: Jan 11, 2022
“You are a disgraceful man who has abused a young woman.” These were the words of HH Judge Dixon as a Sheffield taxi driver was handed a prison sentence for the rape of an 18-year-old woman.
Altaf Hussain, 45, formerly of the Ecclesall area of Sheffield, was sentenced to 15 years behind bars at Sheffield Crown Court today (7 January 2022) after being found guilty of two counts of rape at an earlier hearing.
The court heard that on 26 January 2020, the victim was heading home from a night out in Sheffield City Centre when she entered Hussain’s taxi. Instead of taking her home, Hussain drove her to a secluded area where he raped her.
The jury found Hussain guilty of two counts of rape of a woman 16 years of age or over at Sheffield Crown Court on 17 December.
He was remanded to custody and was today sentenced for his crimes. Alongside his custodial sentence, he was given a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for 20 years after his release and a restraining order for life preventing him from having any contact with the victim.
On reading Hussain’s sentence, HH Judge Dixon commented: “I have grave concerns about you. This is most clearly an abuse of trust case. You are a disgraceful man who has abused a young woman.”
DC Thomas Ryan, who led the investigation, said: “Hussain was in a position of trust that night. His job was to take his victim home safely. He not only completely violated that trust, but he committed an absolutely deplorable crime.
“I am pleased that he has received a custodial sentence and is now off our streets for a significant period of time - our city centre is now a lot safer without him in it.
“I would like to thank the victim for her bravery in coming forward and reporting what happened to her. I hope that Hussain’s sentencing, while it can never undo the pain he has caused, can help her move towards healing.
“If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse or violence, please know that it is not your fault. It is the offender who is to blame. Please report to us so we can support you, investigate and bring offenders to justice.
“Call 101, 999 in an emergency, or report online.”
