Angel Sanchez, 37, of Costa Mesa was arrested Saturday on suspicion of sexually assaulting a passenger he picked up while driving for Uber and police suspect their could be more victims, according to the Santa Ana Police Department.
The Uber driver, who has been working for the ride-share service for roughly a year, was arrested at his Costa Mesa and taken to the Santa Ana Jail where he is being held on $100,000 bail, police said.
The alleged assault happened on Thursday, March 31. The female victim ordered a ride from Uber and was picked up by Sanchez in a gray 2016 Toyota Sienna. The woman was driven to a street near her Santa Ana home and sexually assaulted inside the van. She managed to run from the vehicle and called police.
Police have released a photo of a similar gray Toyota Sienna van and a photo of Sanchez (see above). They are requesting witnesses or other sexual assault victims contact them at 714-245-8412.
Legal Rights for Uber Passengers Who are Sexually Assaulted
Although Uber drivers are classified as contract workers, not employees, there have been several settlements and at least one court ruling against the ride-share company.
Uber Technologies Inc. recently settled lawsuits in November 2016 filed by two women who were assaulted by their Uber drivers. One of the drivers was viciously raped by a driver who took her on a detour and the other was assaulted by the driver after he dropped off her friend. Six months earlier, a judge ruled against Uber in a third incident involving sexual assault.
“Uber has been held accountable for these sexual assaults in part because they advertise they use stringent background checks to ensure the safety of rideshare passengers,” said Attorney James Johnson.
If you have been the victim of a sexual assault or rape by a driver who works for a ridesharing company such as Uber, Lyft or any other commercial service, contact the law offices of Johnson Attorneys Group to request a free consultation at 800-235-6801. Our personal injury law firm will take immediate steps to protect your legal rights and get you the compensation you deserve.
- Geoffrey Balzer Killed in Coalinga Crash on Interstate 5 - June 9, 2023
- Richard Coin Killed in Oroville Pedestrian Accident on Olive Highway - June 9, 2023
- Stanislaus County Car Crash at Patterson Road and Skittone Road - June 9, 2023
