Georgia Lyft passenger accused of raping, kidnapping driver
A man in Georgia was arrested for allegedly raping and kidnapping a female Lyft driver, then stealing her car after she picked him up, as announced by police on Tuesday.
According to Alpharetta Police, the ride-share driver picked up the passenger, identified as Demarcus Johnson, on March 11, after which he proceeded to steal her vehicle, abduct her, and commit rape.
During their investigation, detectives discovered that Johnson had given the victim a sedative during the ordeal, as stated in a police news release.
Johnson was apprehended on Friday in connection with the crime and has been charged with rape, kidnapping, aggravated assault, and theft by taking, a felony offense.
The victim awoke in an unfamiliar hotel room with her car missing, as reported by police spokesperson Capt. R. Andrew Splawn. He mentioned that Johnson and the victim had a seemingly amicable Lyft ride, leading to them deciding to have drinks together.
"The two engaged in conversation and agreed to have a drink with one another," Splawn said. "At which time the victim doesn’t remember and is unable to account for the events that evening."
Further analysis revealed prescription narcotics in the victim's system, which she had not been prescribed nor consciously consumed.
A Lyft spokesperson addressed the incident by emphasizing the company's commitment to safety and condemning Johnson's alleged actions as "reprehensible." They confirmed that Johnson's account had been permanently removed from the Lyft platform, and they cooperated with law enforcement in their investigation.
Splawn advised both ride-share drivers and passengers to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings at all times.
"Whether you're an operator, a driver, in a rideshare as a patron, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and make sure you're vigilant," he emphasized.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing.
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