A Redbridge man who posed as a taxi driver subjected a teenager to a harrowing four-hour ordeal involving rape and sexual assault in his car. Ruckling Ramsay, 61, picked up the vulnerable 19-year-old in Brighton city centre in the early hours of July 3, 2022, a court heard.
The Attack
Ramsay pressured the young woman into repeatedly sniffing white powder before driving her against her will in his silver Mercedes. The predator carried out horrific attacks, including one at knifepoint, in areas such as Shoreham Power Station and remote stretches of the South Downs. The victim managed to text a friend at around 9:30 am, who tracked her location and followed Ramsay's vehicle until the teenager escaped.
Police Investigation
Once reported, Sussex Police traced Ramsay through his registration and took him into custody. A search of the Mercedes uncovered condoms, Viagra, and lubricant, as well as items proving the victim had been in the car. Data from his phone showed he had been prowling the Brighton area before the attack and even searched for solicitors after the kidnapping.
Ramsay was released on conditional bail while evidence was gathered. In January 2024, the Metropolitan Police launched an investigation when a second victim came forward. She told officers Ramsay had abducted her and subjected her to non-consensual sex acts in his vehicle, causing significant fear and distress. DNA evidence from the victim's clothing matched Ramsay, and vehicle tracking data corroborated her statement.
Charges and Conviction
The Wanstead resident was charged with three counts of rape, kidnap, and sexual assault by penetration in relation to the Sussex Police investigation, as well as further charges of kidnap, kidnap with intent to commit a sexual offence, and sexual assault in London. At trial, a victim of a similar incident in 2009, in which Ramsay was the prime suspect, provided live bad character evidence. That investigation was never formally charged.
Ramsay, of Osprey Close, was found guilty of all charges at Inner London Crown Court on May 21 after less than two hours of jury deliberation.
Police Statements
Sussex Police investigator Sophie Williams said: "I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all the victims in this case, their families, and the witnesses. Without their courage and support, we would not be where we are today. Their strength and resilience have been truly remarkable. Thanks to their efforts, a dangerous offender has been removed from our streets."
Met detective constable Kieran Mulvaney added: "This outcome reflects the determination of our officers to pursue justice, using every piece of evidence available to support the victim and bring the perpetrator before the courts. We encourage anyone who has experienced sexual violence to report it - you will be listened to, taken seriously, and supported throughout."
Sentencing
Ramsay is due to be sentenced at Inner London Crown Court on Wednesday, July 15. MyLondon contacted Sussex Police, but requests for a photo of Ramsay were denied.
