Uber Responds to Recent Kidnapping, Rape

Uber has responded to the December 6 kidnapping and rape of a Boston Uber passenger.

Alejandro Done, of Boston, was arraigned in Cambridge District Court on charges of rape, assault to rape, kidnapping and assault and battery (two counts) on Wednesday. Done picked up the victim on Tremont Street around 7:30 p.m before locking the car doors and choking her, according to authorities. He also allegedly sexually assaulted her.

Cambridge Police investigated the incident and tracked down Done through Uber’s records. The alleged victim later identified Done as her attacker.

“This is a despicable crime and our thoughts and prayers are with the victim during her recovery,” said Uber spokesperson Kaitlin Durkosh in a statement. “Uber has been working closely with law enforcement and will continue to do everything we can to assist their investigation.”

Authorities said it is not known yet if Done used information he gained through his position with Uber to target the victim.

In response to that assault and other recent transportation incidents in the area, Uber is reminding those seeking transport to be cautious when using such services.

Regarding taxi services specifically, the company warns of “gypsy cabs,” which are unmarked vehicles offering transportation. Uber says no one should get into any vehicle on the street that is not a clearly identifiable pre-arranged transportation provider or licensed taxi. The company encourages transportation service users to utilize the safeguards built into their app and refer to their blog for safety tips.

“Our technology has brought an unprecedented degree of accountability and transparency to the transportation industry,” Uber says, citing “driver and vehicle information provided in-app, detailed email receipts sent after each ride and a 24/7 feedback loop” as primary benefits. Users can share their journey in real time using the Share My ETA feature.

Alejandro Done is being held until a hearing scheduled for December 24 at 9 a.m.

Image via Shutterstock.