Man in court over Leeds ‘taxi’ sex attack attempt

A MAN is due to appear in court today charged with the attempted rape of a woman who got into what she thought was a taxi after a night out in Leeds city centre.
Beeston Park, near the junction with Gipsy Lane. Picture: Google MapsBeeston Park, near the junction with Gipsy Lane. Picture: Google Maps
Beeston Park, near the junction with Gipsy Lane. Picture: Google Maps

The 29-year-old man, from Leeds, was charged with attempted rape in connection with the incident on the ring road at Beeston Park, near the junction with Gipsy Lane, at about 6.30am on Sunday December 13.

Police said earlier this week that the 23-year-old victim had been out for the night and got into what she believed was a taxi in the city centre.

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The driver was said to have pulled the vehicle over on the ring road at Beeston Park, before getting out. He then opened the passenger door and punched the victim in the face before trying to sexually assault her.

She fought back and got out of the vehicle, which drove off along Gipsy Lane towards Middleton.

Detective Inspector Phil Jackson, of Leeds CID, said: “This was obviously a frightening experience for the victim and she is being supported by specially-trained officers.

“We are conducting extensive enquiries to trace the man involved and we would urgently like to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident or who has any information that could assist the investigation.”

Stephen Clarke, aged 29, of Boggart Hill Drive, Leeds, is due to appear at Leeds Magistrates Court this morning.

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