Fake Taxi Driver Jailed for 23 Years After Attacking Two Women in Brighton and Hove

A dangerous sex offender who posed as a taxi driver to prey on vulnerable women in Brighton and Hove has been jailed for 23 years after being found guilty for a second time. Brighton “Fake Taxi” Predator Convicted Graham Head, 68, from Pevensey, was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court after a retrial confirmed his conviction […]

A dangerous sex offender who posed as a taxi driver to prey on vulnerable women in Brighton and Hove has been jailed for 23 years after being found guilty for a second time.

Brighton “Fake Taxi” Predator Convicted

Graham Head, 68, from Pevensey, was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court after a retrial confirmed his conviction for kidnap, attempted rape, and assault by penetration. The predator targeted women who believed they were being taken home in a legitimate taxi, before subjecting them to terrifying attacks.

The court heard that in August 2022, Head abducted a teenage woman in Hove Park, dragging her into bushes and sexually assaulting her. Just three months later, in November 2022, he struck again, kidnapping a 25-year-old woman who thought she was getting a safe ride home.

Both women bravely reported the incidents, and quick-thinking from one victim, who memorised part of Head’s number plate, helped police track him down. Officers arrested him later that same night.

Police Found “Rape Kit” in Car

When Head’s silver Mercedes estate was searched, officers discovered disturbing items including latex gloves, condoms, Viagra tablets, and a balaclava – evidence prosecutors described as a prepared “rape kit.” He had even produced business cards advertising himself as an “N-Uber driver” with the tagline “Safe and Reliable – For All Occasions”.

Detectives later established that Head deliberately placed his phones in flight mode to avoid being tracked while targeting victims.

Retrial and Sentence Upheld

Head was first convicted in July 2023, receiving an 18-year prison term plus five years on extended licence, totalling 23 years. However, he successfully appealed in November 2024, leading to a retrial.

On 19 June 2025, a new jury unanimously found him guilty again, and on 29 August 2025, Judge Christine Laing KC re-imposed the original 23-year sentence. She branded Head a “sexual predator” and “the very definition of dangerous,” warning he posed a serious risk to women.

Tragic Impact on Victims

The court heard powerful victim impact statements, including one from the mother of a young woman who tragically took her own life in December 2024, shortly after learning Head’s appeal had been successful.

Her family described how she had suffered complex PTSD, severe anxiety, and agoraphobia, leaving her unable to recover from the trauma.

The judge commended the bravery of both victims, and Sussex Police detectives were praised for their fast response and dedicated investigation.

Detective Constable Elliott Lander said:

“No sentence can undo the devastation caused by Graham Head. But Sussex is safer now that this dangerous predator is behind bars.”

Warning to the Public: Stay Safe in Taxis and Ride-Shares

Police are urging members of the public in Brighton, Hove, and across Sussex to remain vigilant when using late-night taxis or ride-sharing apps. Officers recommend:

Always pre-book taxis through a licensed firm.

Check that the vehicle matches the details provided by apps such as Uber or Bolt.

Look for the official taxi licence plate before getting in.

Never get into a car offered by a stranger claiming to be a taxi driver.

Conclusion

This shocking case highlights the dangers of fake taxi drivers exploiting vulnerable passengers in nightlife areas such as Brighton city centre, Hove seafront, and beyond. Thanks to the courage of survivors and the determination of Sussex Police, a predatory offender has been taken off the streets for more than two decades.