Uber Driver's Trial for Sexual Assault of Passenger Begins in Tampa

Steeve Louis, an Uber driver, is currently on trial in Tampa, Florida, accused of sexually assaulting a 20-year-old international student. The prosecution claims that Louis used a deceptive tactic involving Cash App to manipulate and coerce the victim, who was studying at the University of South Florida. During a ride in August 2023, he engaged the victim in personal conversation, learning about her visa status and financial concerns. After offering to help her set up Cash App, he took her phone and installed the app while taking her contact information. Following this encounter, the victim received threatening messages from someone posing as a Cash App agent, claiming her visa would be at risk unless she provided intimate evidence of a relationship with Louis.

The coercive nature of these messages led to the victim being manipulated into performing sexual acts with Louis. This case underscores the vulnerabilities faced by international students and raises critical questions about passenger safety in rideshare services. It also highlights the alarming tactics used by perpetrators to exploit victims' fears and insecurities.