Columbian Uber driver Alejandro Andres Tochoytochoy was arrested on Monday, August 14, 2023, following allegations of sexual assault on a female passenger. According to media reports, on Friday, August 11, 2023, Tochoytochoy, 43, picked up a 25-year-old woman in Miami at approximately 1 am after a party in the North Miami Beach area. The victim told investigators she was lying in the back seat, dozed off, and woke up to the driver fondling her private parts. The victim said she became afraid and quickly exited the vehicle before arriving at her final destination. She later identified Tochoytochoy as the man who sexually assaulted her. Tochoytochoy was questioned and arrested, facing charges including sexual battery on a helpless victim, and his bond was set at $50,000.
In a statement by Telemundo, Uber stated, "We are deeply disturbed by the experience reported by the passenger. This behavior has no place in our society, and we take reports like this very seriously. We have a dedicated team ready to assist law enforcement with their investigation."
Rideshare Companies Are Responsible For Drivers' Behavior
Rideshare services can be a convenient way to get around. Whether you're traveling or need a ride home after a night out, companies like Uber and Lyft have provided a convenient alternative to taxis or car rentals. However, numerous people have been sexually abused by rideshare drivers in the past few years. A recent report released by Uber revealed that more than 3,000 sexual assaults were reported on the company's 1.3 billion rides in 2018. Victims were both drivers and riders, including some incidents between riders. In instances of rape, 92% of the reported victims had been riders.
Uber customers have an expectation of proper vetting of their Uber drivers for qualifications, as well as for safety. Many Uber passengers are critical that Uber has not employed technology to deter sexual misconduct and ensure the safety of their passengers. It is unacceptable that there are employees who take advantage of trusting riders and break the law.
Horowitz Law has filed numerous sexual assault claims on behalf of clients sexually abused by their Uber or Lyft drivers. An employee of any company is never permitted to have unwanted sexual contact with a customer. If you have been a victim of sexual assault or sexual battery during an Uber or Lyft ride, or if you know someone who has, please contact our law firm at 888-283-9922 or send an e-mail to sexual abuse lawyer Adam Horowitz.