Dearborn Hgts. Uber Driver Sexually Assaults Passenger, Leaves Her On Side Of Road: Police

DETROIT — A Dearborn Heights Uber driver was arrested Friday after police said he sexually assaulted a passenger in his car, Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy said.

Wessam Ali-Karem Al-Thwej, 37, was charged with first-degree criminal sexual conduct, third-degree criminal sexual conduct and unlawful imprisonment.

He was placed in the Wayne County Jail and given a $250,000 cash bond, officials said. If he is released, he must wear a GPS tether. The Probable Cause Conference is scheduled for Sept. 16 at 8:30 a.m.

"There is no doubt that ride companies provide a great service, but this case is an example of a requested ride that went horribly wrong. Be careful when you use these services, not every driver can or should be trusted blindly," Worthy said.

Detroit Police said they were called to the area of Lantz Street and Chrysler Service Drive in Detroit for a reported rape in progress at 9 a.m. on July 10, officials said.

As officers arrived at the scene, they found a 24-year-old Roseville woman lying on the side of the road, officials said. She was taken to a nearby hospital.

Police said Al-Thwej sexually assaulted the woman in his car and then kicked her out of the vehicle as he fled the scene, officials said.