SOMERVILLE, MA – A 27-year-old Lyft driver from Brockton faced serious charges this week, pleading not guilty to allegations of assault and rape. The incident, which occurred over the weekend, has raised concerns about passenger safety in ride-sharing services.
Luis Carlos Ramos Texera, the driver in question, appeared in Somerville District Court handcuffed and behind glass. The charges stem from an alleged incident involving a female passenger he picked up in Boston. According to court documents, the woman had been socializing with friends and colleagues at a bar on Exeter Street before requesting a Lyft ride around 2:30 a.m.
The woman reported to police that her last memory was entering the backseat of the vehicle. She later awoke to find herself in a compromising position, with her head on the driver’s lap and her clothing disheveled. She claimed to have consumed only a glass of champagne and a martini prior to the ride and did not interact with strangers at the bar.
Authorities stated that the woman was discovered nearly 90 minutes later on Canal Lane in Somerville, after which Texera allegedly drove away. She sought medical attention at Cambridge Hospital while police coordinated with Lyft to identify the driver using his vehicle and profile picture.
Texera has been charged with rape and assault and battery. During his court appearance on Monday, the judge ordered him to be held without bail pending a dangerousness hearing.
Lyft responded to the allegations with a statement expressing their condemnation of the reported behavior and confirmed Texera’s removal from their platform. The company assured their cooperation with law enforcement as the investigation continues.
The case highlights ongoing concerns over ride-sharing safety and the measures companies implement to protect passengers. Community members are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to authorities.