Plano, TX – A 31-year-old Uber driver from Garland, Texas has been arrested and charged with sexually assaulting a 12-year-old passenger during a ride earlier this month.
Uber Driver Arrested for Allegedly Sexually Assaulting a Minor Passenger
Robert Johnson III was taken into custody on July 15 by the Plano Police Department following an investigation by their Special Victims Unit. The arrest came after the child’s mother reported the incident to authorities.
Alleged Assault of Minor During Uber Ride
According to police, Johnson picked up the unaccompanied 12-year-old minor in Frisco on July 9. During the trip, he allegedly pulled off the road near 4200 Legacy Drive in Plano and sexually assaulted the child.
The victim told their mother about the assault the next day, leading to a police report being filed. On July 12, a judge granted a warrant for aggravated sexual assault of a child.
Uber’s Response to Allegations Driver Sexually Abused Passenger in TX
Uber has permanently banned Johnson from their platform and is cooperating with the police investigation. The company stated that the trip was not requested through their “Uber for teens” program, which has additional safeguards for underage riders.
Ongoing Investigation After Uber Driver’s Arrest
Johnson was released from Collin County Jail after posting a $200,000 bond. Police are not disclosing the gender of the victim. The Plano Police Department urges the public to remain vigilant when using rideshare services and has asked any potential additional victims to contact their Special Victims Unit.
Legal Pathways for Uber and Lyft Sexual Assault Victims
In the wake of a disturbing incident involving a North Texas Uber driver accused of sexually assaulting a 12-year-old passenger, attorney Laurence Banville sits down with Anjali Nigam, a seasoned child sexual abuse lawyer. Together, they explore the legal avenues available for victims and discuss how to hold negligent parties accountable.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Anjali, what legal rights do victims of sexual abuse by a rideshare driver have?
Anjali Nigam, Esq.: Victims can seek justice through both criminal and civil courts. In civil cases, they can file lawsuits against the perpetrator and the rideshare company if it can be shown that the company was negligent in hiring or supervising the driver.
Banville: How can victims hold negligent parties accountable?
Nigam: Victims can demonstrate that the rideshare company failed to conduct proper background checks or ignored warning signs about the driver’s behavior. Successful lawsuits can result in compensation for physical, emotional, and psychological harm, and they also serve to raise awareness and prevent future incidents.
Banville: What steps should a victim take if they want to pursue legal action?
Nigam: Victims should contact a specialized attorney who can guide them through the process. Gathering evidence and documenting the abuse are critical steps. Legal professionals can help navigate the complexities of the legal system and ensure that the victim’s rights are protected.
Reach Out for Support and Guidance
If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse, it is important to know that you are not alone. Legal options are available to help you seek justice and accountability. We encourage victims and their families to contact us for a free consultation. Our compassionate team is here to provide support, answer your questions, and guide you through the legal process. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities.
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Mr. Banville is a personal injury attorney who has experience in handling auto accidents, work injuries, medical malpractice, dog bites, slip and falls, and representing survivors and victims of sexual abuse. Mr. Banville is affiliated with law firms in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, D.C., and Maryland. Abuse Guardian
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