Taxi Driver Sentenced to Nine Years for Raping Sleeping Passenger in Aberystwyth
A predatory taxi driver has been jailed for nine years after raping a woman who fell asleep in his cab in Aberystwyth, Wales. Dominic Dalton, 30, from Pencader, Carmarthenshire, exploited his victim's vulnerability during a night out on February 25, 2024, leading to a swift conviction and a strong response from law enforcement.
Details of the Horrific Incident
The court heard that Dalton picked up the woman and a friend following a night out in Aberystwyth. After dropping off the friend, he turned off his meter and drove the sleeping woman to her home, where he carried her to bed. She later awoke to find him raping her, prompting her to fight back by grabbing a knife from the kitchen and screaming for him to leave.
When Dalton refused, the victim ran outside barefoot and used the knife to slash his tyres before seeking refuge at a neighbour's house, where she alerted the police. In a desperate attempt to avoid capture, Dalton flagged down another taxi, falsely claiming his tyres had blown out, and later returned to the woman's home when he realised he had her phone, but police had already arrived.
Investigation and Court Proceedings
Dalton's phone records revealed incriminating searches, including queries about false rape accusations and perverting the course of justice. He was arrested and denied the charges, claiming the sexual activity was consensual, but a jury at Swansea Crown Court found him guilty after less than two hours of deliberation.
Detective Inspector Mathew Nelson commended the victim's bravery, stating, 'I sincerely commend the victim’s bravery and resilience in coming forward to report this heinous crime. Engaging with the Criminal Justice System takes immense courage, and by standing up, she has protected other community members.' He added that the conviction validates the victim's voice and hopes it encourages other victims to come forward.
Broader Context and Campaign
This case highlights the ongoing issue of violence against women, with campaigns like This Is Not Right aiming to address this national emergency. Launched on November 25, 2024, in partnership with Women's Aid, the campaign seeks to raise awareness and support victims, underscoring the importance of community safety and justice.
The sentencing serves as a reminder that perpetrators will be dealt with robustly, and it reinforces the need for vigilance and support systems to combat such crimes effectively.
