David Perry. Pic: Metropolitan Police

An East London black cab driver yesterday pleaded guilty to attempted rape and sexual assault on the first day of his trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court yesterday.

David Perry, the 52-year-old from Gayton House, Bow, pleaded guilty to one count of assault by penetration, one count of attempted rape and one count of a sexual assault on two women.

On 27 January 2013, Perry sexually assaulted two women who hailed his cab near South Woodford tube station. The victims, who were both women in their early twenties, had been out socialising before getting into Perry’s taxi and falling asleep. They wake up and found him assaulting them.

Perry was arrested at his home in east London in August 2014, after his DNA was matched to both offences and was charged on the 15 August.

Detective Chief Inspector, Samantha Price from the Sexual Offences, Exploitation and Child Abuse Command, said: “Perry, as the driver of an iconic black taxi, was in a position of trust. Sadly, he breached that trust by targeting women who he perceived to be vulnerable. Thankfully, those women came forward and reported him to the police.”

“Perry was a taxi driver for some 25 years and I must consider the possibility he may have committed other offences that have not been reported to the police.”

“I would now appeal directly to anyone, who as a result of this case, thinks they may have been raped or assaulted by Perry.”

“I would like to reassure anyone worried about coming forward that they will be treated with the utmost sensitivity and specially trained officers will be available to listen to them and support them through each step.”

Police are asking for anyone who would like to report an assault to call them on 020 8217 6446.