Lyft Driver Charged After Passenger Assault in North Carolina

Ryan James Davey, 30, of Cary, North Carolina, was arrested on April 1, 2026, and charged with felony kidnapping, driving while impaired, sexual battery, indecent exposure, and resisting a law enforcement officer. Davey worked as an active Lyft driver at the time of the incident. Authorities say the assault occurred during a rideshare trip in the Cary area on March 31, 2026.

The Alleged Assault

According to the arrest warrant, Davey picked up a passenger and assaulted her during the ride. The warrant states that Davey sexually assaulted the victim, including grabbing her face and forcing her to kiss him against her will. The victim reported the incident to police, providing detailed information that led to Davey’s arrest hours later.

A DWI breath test performed after arrest showed Davey’s blood alcohol level exceeded the legal limit, according to court records. The warrant notes he was charged with impaired driving in addition to the sexual assault charges.

Passenger Safety Concerns

The incident raises ongoing concerns about passenger safety in the rideshare industry. Rideshare companies are required to conduct background checks on drivers, but critics argue these checks do not go far enough in identifying high-risk individuals. Uber and Lyft have faced multiple lawsuits from passengers alleging sexual assault by drivers.

As of April 2026, 3,391 plaintiffs in 30 states had joined lawsuits against Uber related to sexual assault allegations, with the number expected to continue rising. Lyft has faced similar litigation.

Rideshare Safety Measures

Both Lyft and Uber have implemented features designed to enhance passenger safety, including in-app emergency buttons, ride-sharing features that allow passengers to share their trip details with friends and family, and continuous video monitoring in some markets. However, safety advocates argue that technology alone cannot eliminate risk and that stricter driver vetting is necessary.

Legal Proceedings

Davey appeared in court and was ordered held without bond under Iryna’s Law, a North Carolina statute requiring defendants charged with violent sexual offenses to prove they are not a danger to the public before bail is considered. His case is being prosecuted by the Wake County District Attorney’s Office. The victim is reportedly cooperating with prosecutors and law enforcement, according to court documents.

Lyft’s Response

Lyft issued a statement saying the company removed Davey from its platform immediately upon learning of the allegations. The company said it is cooperating fully with law enforcement and is reviewing its driver screening protocols.

References: Cary Rideshare Driver Charged With Kidnapping, DWI, Sexual Assault