Uber driver sexually assaulted woman, stole phone to give himself good review: police

York Regional Police are searching for a male Uber driver that allegedly sexually assaulted a female passenger in Vaughan and stole her phone to leave him a good review on the app.

Authorities say the suspect was working as an Uber driver in a white 2021 Toyota Corolla on April 23 when he picked up an adult woman in the Yonge Street and Eglinton Avenue area in Toronto to transport her to Vaughan.

The Uber driver allegedly pulled into a parking lot in the Rutherford Road and Weston Road area in Vaughan, where he sexually assaulted the woman.

Police said the male driver then took the victim’s phone, concluded the trip on the Uber app and gave himself a five-star review and a monetary tip.

The woman got her phone back and exited the vehicle. The Uber driver then left the area.

Police said the 26-year-old woman was not physically injured.

The Uber driver was identified as 53-year-old Vikram Lather of Brampton. He’s facing one count of sexual assault and one count of fraud under $5,000.

Uber said it’s aware of the allegations and has banned the driver.

“This driver’s described conduct is abhorrent, and we take reports like this very seriously,” a spokesperson told CityNews.

“As soon as we were made aware of his actions, we banned the driver from the platform. We’ve been in touch with the rider and stand at the ready to assist the police as they continue to investigate.”

Uber said a dedicated team of safety agents is working with York police in assisting the investigation.

Investigators believe there may be additional victims, and officers urge them to come forward.