Uber Driver Assaulted in Seekonk, Man Arrested

The incident raises concerns about the safety of rideshare drivers.

News Summary

A 25-year-old man, James D. Oakes, was arrested in Seekonk for allegedly assaulting an Uber driver during a ride. The driver showed great courage by escaping after being attacked. Oakes faces multiple serious charges including strangulation, kidnapping, and assault with intent to rape. Authorities are investigating the incident to ensure the safety of rideshare drivers.

Seekonk, Massachusetts – A 25-year-old man, James D. Oakes, has been arrested following his alleged assault of a female Uber driver during a ride early Saturday morning. The incident has led to serious charges, including strangulation, kidnapping, and assault with intent to rape.

The altercation occurred around 1:35 a.m. at the intersection of County Street and Arrowhead Road. Police officers responded to a report of a motor vehicle crash and discovered the Uber driver on the lawn of a nearby residence. Upon examination, it was revealed that the driver had picked up Oakes in North Seekonk and was transporting him to South Seekonk.

During the drive, Oakes requested to change the destination to an alternate location. Upon arrival at this new address, he asked the driver to reverse down a long, dark driveway. Although the driver initially refused this request, she ultimately complied after facing pressure from Oakes.

Tragically, while positioned in the unlit driveway, Oakes allegedly began physically assaulting the driver. Despite the attack, she managed to shift the vehicle into drive and escape the situation, driving away as the assault continued. Eventually, the vehicle came to a stop on a front lawn, allowing Oakes to flee the scene with the driver’s cellphone.

The victim sounded the car horn for assistance, which attracted the attention of a nearby resident. This resident promptly called the police, which initiated a swift investigation into the matter. On Sunday, police issued an arrest warrant for Oakes, who was taken into custody later that afternoon without incident.

Oakes now faces a series of serious charges, including:

Strangulation or suffocation
Kidnapping
Assault with intent to rape
Assault and battery
Unarmed robbery
Intimidation of a witness
Interference with a ride share driver

On Monday, Oakes was arraigned in Taunton District Court. He is currently being held pending a dangerousness hearing scheduled for the following Monday. As of now, details regarding his bail have not been disclosed.

This incident raises concerns about the safety of rideshare drivers, who may face various risks while transporting passengers. The Uber driver in this case displayed remarkable courage by managing to escape and seeking assistance despite the dangerous situation she encountered.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this troubling incident as they work to ensure the safety of rideshare drivers and protect the community. Further updates will be provided as new information emerges regarding Oakes’ court hearing and the ongoing investigation.