A VILE man lured an unwitting woman into his car then took her to a public park where he sexually assaulted her.

Detectives said Mamdouh Ramzi showed “little remorse” over the assault in Stanmer Park, Brighton, as he was jailed for the offence.

The 45-year-old delivery driver approached a woman in Brighton city centre after she had become separated from her friends on a night out.

He offered her a lift home and, thinking he was a taxi driver, she got into his car in Old Steine.

But, rather than taking her home, Ramzi drove more than three miles to Stanmer Park.

There, he sexually assaulted her.

The victim’s friends became worried for her safety after she did not return home on the morning of the incident, May 17

They called 999 at 5.20am and, as they were on the phone, she returned home after being dropped off near her home.

Ramzi, of Tillstone Street in Brighton, was identified through CCTV and his vehicle registration.

He was arrested by police the following day on suspicion of kidnap and sexual assault and subsequently charged.

Ramzi initially denied having anyone in his vehicle, later changing his story to claim he had a consensual sexual encounter with the victim.

But he was found guilty of false imprisonment, sexual assault and sexual assault by penetration for which he will serve eight years in jail and a further four years on extended license.

Ramzi has also been put on the sexual offenders register and was served an indefinite sexual harm prevention order.

Detective Sergeant Jemma Paterson said: “Mamdouh Ramzi is a predatory individual who exploited the vulnerability of the victim and we are pleased he is now behind bars.

“He showed little remorse throughout the court process and his not guilty plea meant the victim had to relive the distressing events of that night all over again.

“I would like to praise the bravery of the victim who came forward to disclose the traumatic ordeal she was subject to.

“She has been provided with support by specialist trained officers.

“No one should have to be a victim of this sort of crime and we urge anyone who unfortunately has been to get in contact with us.”