The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
A rideshare driver in Queens is facing serious charges after allegedly threatening to kill a customer who caused him to be banned from the platform.
In September 2022, the 47-year-old Uber driver refused to give a ride to a customer who had a service dog, and they reported him to Uber, leading to the driver’s account being deactivated. After he was fired, the driver reportedly spent nearly two years demanding proof that the dog was a legitimate service animal.
According to reports, things escalated in May 2024 when the former rideshare driver allegedly began making multiple threats toward Uber and the customer. He reportedly called at least 18 times and left several voicemails for the customer, allegedly threatening violence and stating his intention to “ruin” their life. Despite warnings from the FBI to stop, the threats reportedly continued.
During a series of aggressive messages, the driver allegedly talked about running the customer over or making him permanently disabled. At one point, he reportedly said he had “nothing to lose” and would resort to violence if his demands weren’t met.
On October 5, the suspect was taken into custody on suspicion of transmitting a threat through interstate communications. He was released on bond but remains on home detention. He is still allowed to work as a driver, but the city’s Taxi and Limousine Commission is looking into having his license suspended. The man was prohibited from contacting both the customer and the rideshare company, and the judge warned him about making the situation worse by pursuing legal action against the company when he allegedly threatened to open a civil case against them. If convicted of the current charge, he could spend up to five years behind bars.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a criminal offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.