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Lyft driver raped, kidnapped, robbed by passenger in Alpharetta, police say

By and FOX 5 Atlanta Digital Team
Published  April 9, 2024 3:55pm EDT
Alpharetta
FOX 5 Atlanta

Lyft driver drugged, kidnapped, raped by passenger

Alpharetta investigators say a Lyft passenger drugged, kidnapped and then raped his driver last month. FOX 5 is learning more about the new, disturbing details.

ALPHARETTA, Ga. - Alpharetta police have made an arrest in the rape and kidnapping of a Lyft driver last month.

Police said the female driver picked up her passenger, Demarcus Johnson, on March 11.

Johnson, 32, has been accused of giving the woman a sedative, stealing her car, kidnapping and sexually assaulting her.

Investigators with Alpharetta Police told FOX 5's Rob DiRienzo that the woman woke up in a hotel room unfamiliar to her, and her car was gone.

Demarcus Johnson (Credit: Alpharetta Police Department)

Capt. R. Andrew Splawn said during the ride in March, the victim and the suspect connected and decided to get drinks together.

"The two engaged in conversation and agreed to have a drink with one another," Capt. Splawn said. "At which time the victim doesn’t remember and is unable to account for the events that evening."

Splawn said her toxicology report came back with prescription narcotics she had not been prescribed and did not report taking. 

Johnson was caught on April 5 and faces charges for each crime, including a felony for theft by taking.

FOX 5 reached out to Lyft for comment. A spokesperson released the following statement: 

"Safety is fundamental to Lyft, and the behavior described is reprehensible and has no place in our community or anywhere in society. We have been in contact with the driver to offer our support. Additionally, the rider’s account was permanently removed from the Lyft platform, and we assisted law enforcement with their investigation."

Capt. Splawn encouraged people using rideshares, whether driving or riding, to keep their heads on a swivel.

"Whether you’re an operator, a driver, in a rideshare as a patron, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and make sure you're vigilant," he explained.

The Alpharetta Police Department is asking anyone with additional information related to the incident, or the suspect, to contact detectives immediately at 678-297-6338.