Fake Taxi Predator Jailed for 23 Years in Brighton
A vile sex offender who posed as a taxi driver to snatch and assault vulnerable women in Brighton and Hove has been locked up for 23 years after a retrial confirmed his guilt.
Greedy Graham Head’s Sick Crimes
Graham Head, 68, from Pevensey, was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court for kidnap, attempted rape, and assault by penetration. The twisted predator targeted women who thought they were getting a safe ride home in a legitimate taxi — only to be dragged into bushes and attacked.
- In August 2022, he abducted a teenage girl in Hove Park and sexually assaulted her.
- Just three months later, he kidnapped a 25-year-old woman after tricking her into his silver Mercedes estate.
One brave victim memorised part of his number plate, which helped police track and arrest Head the same night.
Shocking “Rape Kit” Found in Car
Police found disturbing evidence during a search of Head’s vehicle, including latex gloves, condoms, Viagra tablets, and a balaclava — what prosecutors called a “rape kit.” He even handed out business cards advertising himself as an “N-Uber driver” with the slogan “Safe and Reliable – For All Occasions.”
Detectives revealed Head switched his phone to flight mode to avoid being tracked while hunting for victims.
Retrial Confirms Jail Time
Head was first convicted in July 2023 and given an 18-year sentence plus five years on extended licence. He appealed, leading to a retrial in June 2025. The jury found him guilty again, and Judge Christine Laing KC slammed Head as a “sexual predator” and “the very definition of dangerous” before reaffirming the full 23-year sentence.
Tragic Toll on Victims
Victims shared powerful impact statements in court. One woman’s grieving mother spoke out after her daughter tragically took her own life in December 2024, overwhelmed by PTSD, anxiety, and agoraphobia caused by the abuse.
“No sentence can undo the devastation caused by Graham Head. But Sussex is safer now that this dangerous predator is behind bars,” said Detective Constable Elliott Lander.
Stay Safe: Police Warn the Public
Police urge everyone in Brighton, Hove, and Sussex to be cautious when booking taxis and using ride-share apps:
- Always pre-book through licensed firms.
- Check that vehicle details match app info like Uber or Bolt.
- Look for official taxi licence plates.
- Never get into cars from strangers claiming to be taxi drivers.
Battle Against Fake Taxis Continues
This shocking case exposes the terrifying risks fake taxi drivers pose in Brighton’s nightlife spots. Thanks to the bravery of survivors and fast police work, one predator is off the streets for decades — but vigilance is still vital.
