POINTE COUPEE — Sources are now confirming now details into the ongoing investigation of a man working as an Uber driver in Pointe Coupee Parish when he allegedly raped a woman.
Adolfito Marte Mercedes, 56, is behind bars in Pointe Coupee Parish, charged with one count of first-degree rape.
Pointe Coupee Sheriff’s deputies say Mercedes was on the clock as an Uber driver on Thursday, May 28 in Maringouin. Deputies say he was actively working to pick up and drop off passengers when the alleged rape took place.
Sources now tell UWK the woman was disabled, which made Mercedes believe she would not be able to resist the alleged rape or even report it. The alleged incident took place inside his vehicle on Bud Torres Rd. in Pointe Coupee Parish.
After deputies investigated, Mercedes was arrested and booked into the Pointe Coupee Parish Jail on Friday, May 29th.
The Pointe Coupee Sheriff’s Office is not releasing any further details at this time in order to “protect the integrity of the case and the privacy of the victim.”
“Crimes of this nature are among the most serious offenses we investigate. Our detectives worked diligently to ensure that every available lead was pursued and that the facts were thoroughly examined. We remain committed to seeking justice for victims and keeping our communities safe,” Sheriff Rene Thibodeaux said. “While rideshare services provide a valuable transportation option for many citizens, it is important to exercise caution and remain aware of your surroundings. We encourage anyone who experiences or witnesses suspicious conduct to contact law enforcement immediately. The safety of our citizens will always remain our highest priority.”
Uber tells UWK the driver’s access to the app was removed as soon as it was reported to Uber.
“The details of this report are deeply upsetting. We removed the driver’s access to the app as soon as this was reported to us and stand ready to support law enforcement with their investigation. Safety is our top priority at Uber, which is why we’ve continuously built innovative safety features, launched awareness campaigns, and partnered with safety experts to help prevent harm before it happens.”
Uber Spokesperson
UWK pressed Uber asking for specifics on when exactly the driver’s access was removed. They have not responded to repeated requests for an answer.
The investigation is active and ongoing.
Anyone with information related to this case is asked to contact the Pointe Coupee Parish Sheriff’s Office at (225) 638-5445 or submit information through Crime Stoppers.
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