Fake taxi driver jailed after raping intoxicated woman in Edinburgh
Mohamad Sabbagh, 41, was sentenced to seven years at the High Court in Edinburgh on Wednesday
Last updated 28th Aug 2024
A man posing as an Edinburgh taxi driver who raped a woman in his unlicensed vehicle has been jailed.
Mohamad Sabbagh was found guilty on August 1 following a trial at the High Court in Edinburgh.
The 40-year-old offered his victim and her friend a lift home following a night out in the capital city on May 1, 2022.
Believing he was a genuine taxi driver, the two women got into the car before one was dropped off at her home address.
Sabbagh then drove his vulnerable victim to a secluded location and demanded she have sex with him.
He climbed into the back of the car and raped her while she was intoxicated and incapable of giving or withholding consent.
On Wednesday, at the High Court in Edinburgh, Sabbagh was sentenced to seven years imprisonment.
His name has been added to the sex offenders register indefinitely.
A non-harassment order, banning Sabbagh from contacting or attempting to contact his victim, was also granted for an indefinite period.
Scotland’s Procurator Fiscal for High Court Sexual Offending, Katrina Parkes said:
“Mohamad Sabbagh is a predatory individual who poses a danger to women.
“The bravery of his victim has resulted in this conviction, and he will now face the consequences of his depraved behaviour.
“We hope his conviction sends a clear message that the COPFS is committed to prosecuting sexual offences.
“I would encourage anyone affected by similar offending to come forward.
“You will be listened to and we will seek to secure justice, ensuring that those responsible are identified and held accountable.”
Police Scotland Detective Inspector Arthur McEwan added: “Sabbagh’s behaviour was abhorrent.
“The victim believed he was a taxi driver, and she would be taken to her destination safely but instead she was put through an extremely traumatic ordeal.
“She has shown tremendous strength during this case.
“If anyone has been a victim of a sexual offence, I would encourage you to contact Police Scotland on 101, we will take action and provide you with the necessary support.”