Rideshare driver charged with sexual assault of woman during trip

A rideshare driver is shown in a car using a generic rideshare app on their mobile phone in this stock photo. (File photo/terovesalainen/GettyImages)

Windsor police officers have arrested a rideshare driver after an investigation into an alleged sexual assault of a woman during her trip.

On April 18, members of the Windsor Police Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Unit (CASA) launched an investigation after receiving a report that a woman had been sexually assaulted by her rideshare driver.

Investigators learned the victim had arranged transportation through a ridesharing app and was picked up by a male driver, who offered his personal phone number for future bookings.

After the initial trip, police say the victim contacted the driver directly later that evening to request a return ride.

During that interaction, the man allegedly made unwanted sexual advances toward the victim and touched her in a sexual manner while parked in the 400 block of Askin Avenue. The victim repeatedly told the driver to stop before he eventually drove her home. The incident was reported to police later that day.

Following an investigation, police identified the suspect as Chaudhary Pervaz, 30. He was located and arrested in the 100 block of Goyeau Avenue.

He has been charged with sexual assault.

Rideshare safety tips

The Windsor Police Service is reminding the public of safety tips for ridesharing services:

• Passengers are encouraged to verify driver details in the app before entering a vehicle
• Keep all communication and bookings within the platform
• Consider sharing trip information with a friend or family member.
• If you experience unsafe or unusual behaviour during a trip, notify police right away.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the CASA Unit at 519-255-6700, ext. 4903. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Windsor & Essex County Crime Stoppers at 519-258-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.catchcrooks.com.

If you or someone you know is an affected person in need of support, please contact Victim Services Windsor Essex County at 519-723-2711 or the Victim Assistance Unit at 519-255-6700, ext. 7179