Taxi driver accused of rape - jury out

A JURY has retired to consider its verdict in the trial of a taxi driver accused of sexually abusing a girl who lived in a children's home.

By David Parker

Published 14th Sep 2018, 14:46 BST

Updated 14th Sep 2018, 14:56 BST

Darren Hyett (54), of Broom Chase, Rotherham, is alleged to have sexually abused the girl when she was living at St Edmund’s Care Home, Thurcroft, as a teenager.

He had been working for A1 Taxis when he allegedly befriended the girl and gave her gifts, money, drink and drugs, Sheffield Crown Court has heard.

Hyett has been on trial since September 3, he denies five counts of rape, three counts of sexual activity with a child, one count of causing a person to engage in sexual activity with a child, and perverting the course of justice.

He was aged between 40 and 44 when the alleged offences took place, between 2004 and 2007. The complainant was aged between 15 and 18.

The jury retired to consider its verdict at 10.30am today (Friday).