A 51-year-old taxi driver, Jaswinder Singh, has been sentenced to two years and six months in prison for sexually assaulting a female passenger during a journey in the Falkirk area.
The sentencing, handed down on Tuesday, 25 March at Falkirk Sheriff Court, marks the conclusion of a case that has shocked the local community and raised fresh concerns about passenger safety and abuse of trust within the transport industry.
The Assault
The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, 4 February 2024, when Singh picked up the woman, who believed she was on a safe journey home. Instead, Singh exploited his position of trust and sexually assaulted her during the trip.
The victim bravely came forward and reported the attack to the police, providing crucial information that allowed detectives to swiftly launch an investigation.
Swift Action from Police
The case was taken on by the Forth Valley Public Protection Unit, whose officers conducted a detailed inquiry, ultimately arresting and charging Singh.
During court proceedings, it emerged that Singh had deliberately used his role as a licensed taxi driver to target the lone female passenger, in a calculated and predatory act. The prosecution relied heavily on the victim’s compelling testimony and supporting evidence collected by investigators.
Victim Praised for Bravery
Detective Sergeant Stewart Walton, of the Public Protection Unit, commended the woman’s strength in seeing the case through:
“Jaswinder Singh was in a position of trust when he took advantage of this woman, who relied on him to get home safely. He abused that trust, and his actions are sickening. I would like to commend the victim for her strength in coming forward. Her courage was essential in bringing Singh to justice.”
DS Walton also emphasised that police are committed to supporting victims of sexual crime and will pursue offenders relentlessly.
Sentencing and Aftermath
Sheriff Court officials sentenced Singh to 30 months in custody, reflecting the seriousness of the offence. The sentence also sends a clear message about the expectations placed on individuals in public-facing roles and the consequences of breaching that trust.
Authorities say Singh may also be subject to further restrictions, including placement on the Sex Offenders Register, though further details were not disclosed at the time of writing.
Police have urged anyone who experiences or witnesses sexual misconduct to report it immediately, assuring that all reports are treated sensitively and investigated thoroughly.
If you have been affected by similar issues, support is available via Rape Crisis Scotland at 08088 01 03 02 or by visiting www.rapecrisisscotland.org.uk.
