Ricardo Reynolds, a Mason Hall “PH” taxi driver, has been handed an 11 and a half year prison sentence for the rape of a 17-year-old passenger back in 2012. This decision was made by Justice Kathy Ann Waterman-Latchoo on July 24, along with a requirement for Reynolds to register as a sex offender at the Scarborough Police Station every three months for eight years post-release.
Additionally, the judge ordered the registrar of the Supreme Court to share Reynolds’s details with the Police Commissioner for publication on the Public Sex Offender website within 14 days.
It was a harrowing experience for the victim, who had accepted a ride from Reynolds on November 19, 2012, after leaving a family function in Scarborough. Despite her and her boyfriend paying for the ride, Reynolds took advantage of the situation.
Reynolds made unwanted advances towards the girl during the journey, even resorting to violence by pulling over at a beach in Lambeau, where he proceeded to rape her. He then threatened her with dire consequences if she spoke out before abandoning her at the scene.
Luckily, with the support of her family and boyfriend, the victim was able to report the incident to the authorities and receive medical attention promptly at Scarborough Hospital. Reynolds was eventually arrested and charged, leading to the trial where he maintained his innocence.
Despite his claims of consensual relations, the jury saw through Reynolds’ defense, deliberating for just over two hours before returning a guilty verdict. The State was represented by Dylan Martin and Niara Boodan during this trial.
