The popular ride-share app, Uber said safety is a priority.
“Uber is committed to investing in robust screening processes and innovative technology to help keep our community members safe,” the spokesperson said.
Uber made the comments in response to reports that one of its drivers was charged with sexual battery after a 20-year-old woman alleged assault.
“All potential drivers undergo a rigorous background check before their first trip, which reviews driving records and criminal history,” Uber said in a statement. “We work with accredited background check providers to conduct these screenings, and our process consists of several identity safeguards, including a review of a driver’s license, Social Security number, and vehicle registration.”
The Hillsborough County State Attorney’s office brought a formal complaint against Uber driver Anthony Oliveras-Rivera who allegedly admitted to having sexual intercourse with the woman.
“While we can’t comment on pending litigation, Uber’s work on safety never stops,” the Uber spokesperson added.
New York Supreme Court records show Oliveras-Rivera previously was arrested for armed burglary, robbery with a firearm and criminal possession of a controlled substance. He was sentenced to 10 years in the New York Department of Corrections and released.
As previously reported in the Florida Record, the 20-year-old Pasco County alleged victim had been drinking alcohol when she was separated from her friends outside of a Tampa nightclub the week of her birthday. A passerby called an Uber to drive her to her hotel.
She is represented by Andrea Lewis, a former prosecutor for the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s office and an attorney with Searcy Denney Scarola Barnhart and Shipley law firm.
"We have companies making millions and millions and millions of dollars that are offering rides that want to do business with people, including those that are intoxicated and who are looking for a safe ride home," Lewis said. "So, to accept that money but not be willing to put safety precautions and proper screening in place is shameful and it needs to change. It's not this young woman's fault."
Uber told the Florida Record that it works with Checkr, a third-party background check provider accredited by the Professional Background Screening Association, and other nationally recognized background check providers, such as HireRight, Inc., and Samba Safety.
Drivers also are required to provide their full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and driver’s license number, which Uber provides to its third parties to use in record collections.