Leyland sexual predator kidnapped and raped woman at knifepoint

A “dangerous sexual predator” who kidnapped and raped a young woman at knifepoint has been jailed for 20-and-a-half years.

Neil Reid, 43, jumped into the passenger seat of his victim’s car in Leyland in April and threatened her with a knife before demanding she drive them to Lostock Hall, said Lancashire Police.

Preston Crown Court heard that the woman, terrified for her life, did so before Reid raped her.

After she managed to break free and run to a nearby pub to seek help, Reid stole her car before dumping it in Preston. Still armed with the knife he then broke into a house to unsuccessfully demand the keys to another car.

Reid was quickly identified as a suspect, and further inquiries captured him on CCTV.

Reid, of no fixed address but formerly of Leyland, admitted two counts of rape, two counts of attempted robbery, kidnap, committing an offence with intent to commit a sexual offence, and threatening another with a knife.

His victim, in her early 20s, described how she suffers from anxiety and sleepless nights, and has been on medication since her ordeal.

She said she no longer trusts anyone, has lost her freedom and is scared to go out alone.

The victims of the break-in also described the impact on their lives, stressing that they had been left suffering sleepless nights.

Det Insp Ian Derbyshire said: “Neil Reid is clearly a dangerous sexual predator who targeted a lone woman and subjected her to an absolutely horrific ordeal before breaking into a property armed with a knife and confronting the occupants.

“He has shown no remorse for the trauma he has caused with his brutal crimes which have left a deep and lasting impact.”

He added: “I would like to thank the victim for having the courage to support our investigation and this prosecution, which ensures that women will be protected from Reid for a considerable time.”