Man who raped vulnerable teen in car after offering her lift home jailed for 12 years

A man who raped a vulnerable teenage girl in his vehicle after offering her a lift home has been jailed for 12 years.

Victor Popa, 35, attacked the stranded 14-year-old after picking her up from a taxi rank in Aberdeen in the early hours of January 15, 2023.

The 35-year-old was not a taxi driver and did not know the child when he attacked her.

Popa was found guilty on January 30 following a trial at the High Court in Edinburgh.

The jury heard medical evidence which showed the child suffered an injury caused by significant force, likely inflicted while she was unconscious.

CCTV and text messages were also shown in court which supported the child’s account.

On Wednesday, Popa was jailed for 12 years and his name was added to the sex offenders register indefinitely.

A non-harassment order banning Popa from contacting or attempting to contact the victim was also granted for an indefinite period.

Procurator Fiscal Faye Cook, of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service said: “Violence against women and girls has no place in our society. This was a predatory and deeply distressing attack on a child who was simply trying to get home safely.

“The evidence presented to the jury showed the careful work of police officers and prosecutors to uncover what happened and to hold Victor Popa to account.

“I want to recognise the courage shown by the young victim and her family throughout the prosecution process. Their strength has helped bring a dangerous offender to justice.

“The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service will continue to use every tool available to pursue those who target women and girls, and to protect the public from harm.”