Uber driver in Louisville tried to sexually assault female passenger, cops say

An Uber driver has been charged after he attempted to sexually assault a woman who was a passenger in his vehicle, cops say.

Raudel Veloz Cruz, 35, is charged with unlawful imprisonment and sexual abuse, WKYT reported.

At around 9 p.m. on Oct. 17, Veloz Cruz picked up a woman who requested an Uber ride, according to WKYT.

Once they arrived at the drop-off location on Samuel Street in Louisville, Kentucky, the arrest report states that Veloz Cruz locked the doors of the vehicle, preventing the woman from getting out, WKYT reported.

The victim said Veloz Cruz dumped out her purse inside the car as a “diversion tactic” before grabbing her and attempting to kiss her, according to WKYT.

Louisville Metro police said the victim was “visibly distraught” and told officers “she did not consent to unwanted sexual contact,” according to the arrest report obtained by WKYT.

Veloz Cruz was taken into custody at his home on Oct. 18 and booked into Louisville Metro Corrections, WKYT reported. He was arraigned and a judge set his bond at $10,000, according to WKYT.

“What the rider reported is extremely upsetting,” Uber wrote in a statement, according to WKYT. “We have removed the driver’s access to the platform and are standing by to assist law enforcement with their investigation.”