A Cuban Lyft driver in Louisville, Kentucky, is facing serious criminal charges in the United States after being accused of sexually assaulting a passenger during a ride to a medical appointment.
Yordan Díaz Vera, 34, was taken into custody after being accused by a mother of four. According to the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD), he faces charges of first-degree sodomy, kidnapping, and making threats.
As reported by Fox News, the incident occurred on February 4 when the woman requested a Lyft for a medical appointment. During the ride, Díaz Vera allegedly opened the car's glove box to reveal a firearm. He then reportedly stopped the vehicle in a church parking lot, locked the doors, and moved to the back seat where, according to the complaint, he forced the victim to perform sexual acts.
The woman managed to alert authorities after being dropped off at the medical office. The arrest was made the following day in a grocery store parking lot. Police have stated that, so far, there is no evidence suggesting this incident is part of a larger pattern of similar assaults, as noted in the Fox News report.
The case took a further turn when it was revealed that Díaz Vera is under an immigration detainer issued by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), indicating federal authorities believe he may be subject to deportation.
According to Breitbart, the driver is reportedly a Cuban immigrant who entered the United States irregularly in 2022. However, the victim's attorney told local media that the accused had a work permit and was awaiting an immigration hearing to regularize his status.
The Department of Homeland Security did not immediately confirm his exact immigration situation, but police records reflect the existence of the "immigration detainer."
Currently, Díaz Vera remains in custody with a cash bail set at $100,000, in addition to the federal immigration order. The case is expected to be presented to a grand jury in March, according to local television WDRB.
Lyft has permanently removed the driver from its platform and is cooperating with the investigation. "The behavior described is reprehensible and has no place in our community or society," a company spokesperson stated, as reported by WLKY Louisville.
Legal and Immigration Concerns Surrounding Yordan Díaz Vera's Case
What charges is Yordan Díaz Vera facing?
Yordan Díaz Vera is facing charges of first-degree sodomy, kidnapping, and making threats, according to the Louisville Metro Police Department.
What actions has Lyft taken regarding this incident?
Lyft has permanently removed Díaz Vera from their platform and is assisting with the ongoing investigation.
What is the current status of Yordan Díaz Vera's immigration case?
Díaz Vera is under an ICE immigration detainer and is awaiting a grand jury presentation in March. He had a work permit and was awaiting an immigration hearing.