A former taxi driver from Cornwall has been sentenced to four years in prison for sexually abusing a child passenger who could not afford to pay for her journey.
Exploitation of a Vulnerable Passenger
Terence Round, aged 79, pleaded guilty to engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl under 16 and causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. The offences occurred three years ago when the teenager, unable to pay a £30 fare, offered Round "anything he wanted" in exchange for a free lift.
Prosecutor Heather Hope told Truro Crown Court that Round had previously contacted the victim via text message, asking her age and giving her lifts. Ms Hope stated that Round had remarked it was "a shame" the girl was not 16 years old.
A Terrifying Ordeal in a Locked Car
On the day of the crime, after exchanging messages, Round drove the girl to an isolated location. He then locked the doors of his vehicle. The court heard that the victim was "terrified," felt she was about to cry, and froze during the assault.
Following the abuse, Round drove the teenager to her destination. He instructed her to get dressed, act as if nothing had happened, and warned her not to tell anyone about the incident.
Sentencing and Lifetime Registration
Sentencing Round, His Honour Judge James Adkin described how the defendant, in his capacity as a taxi driver, had taken the victim to a secluded spot. The judge noted the profound fear experienced by the girl during her ordeal.
Round was sentenced to four years imprisonment. He will also be placed on the sex offenders register for life. Defence barrister Emily Cook argued the circumstances were "rather odd and unusual" and that Round, who had no previous convictions, initially thought the offer of "anything" meant cleaning his car. She stated he was no longer a taxi driver and posed no risk, having not reoffended.
Judge Adkin acknowledged Round's personal circumstances and clean record as mitigating factors but proceeded with the custodial sentence for what was termed "clearly very serious offending."
