Driver accused of sexually assaulting, kidnapping woman passenger in San Bernardino County
A 50-year-old ride-share driver has been arrested on suspicion of sexually assault and kidnap, according to San Bernardino County authorities.
California Highway Patrol investigators have identified Antonio Ochoa, of San Bernardino, as the suspected ride-share driver who assaulted a 37-year-old woman earlier this year.
Here's what is known about the investigation.
Around 6 a.m. Jan. 6, a woman requested a ride-share service. The driver, later identified as Ochoa, arrived at the woman’s location to take her to her requested destination, investigators said.
On the drive, Ochoa reached over the center console and sexually assaulted the victim. He then brandished a firearm and continued his assault through intimidation and fear, CHP officials said.
When the Ochoa arrived at the woman's requested destination, he refused to allow her to leave the vehicle until she gave him personal information, authorities said. Fearing for her safety, the woman complied with Ochoa’s demand, and she was ultimately allowed to leave.
After the incident, Ochoa fled to Mexico and CHP investigators issued a warrant for his arrest. Ochoa eventually re-entered California, which alerted authorities to his location, investigators said.
On Thursday, Ochoa was booked into the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Central Detention Center on suspicion of sexual assault, kidnapping, and brandishing a firearm during the commission of a crime. He is ineligible for bail and has no court date scheduled, sheriff’s booking records show.
Anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or who has information is encouraged to call CHP Officer Lomenick at 909-383-4247.
This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Driver accused of sexually assaulting, kidnapping woman passenger
