Indian-Origin Driver Accused Of Raping Unconscious Passenger In California; Cops Fear More Victims

Last Updated:December 18, 2025, 16:59 IST

Sekhon, a resident of Bakersfield, was arrested on December 15 and booked at a pre-trial detention facility on charges of raping an unconscious victim

Sekhon picked up the 21-year-old woman from a bar on November 27. (@RandomstuffA2Z)

An Indian-origin rideshare driver in California, identified as Simranjit Singh Sekhon, has been arrested and charged with raping an unconscious passenger during a late-night ride in November. Sekhon, 35, was booked following an investigation by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office, which began after the Major Crimes Sexual Assault Unit received reports of an assault in Camarillo. Detectives believe there may be additional victims who have not yet come forward.

According to Fox 11, Sekhon picked up the 21-year-old woman from a bar in Thousand Oaks at around 1 am on November 27. Police said the victim was “intoxicated and unable to care for herself."

Investigators allege that although the ride was marked as completed, Sekhon continued driving with the unconscious victim in his vehicle, taking her around Camarillo before sexually assaulting her. “After the completion of the ride, Sekhon drove the unconscious victim around Camarillo and sexually assaulted her," the sheriff’s department said in its release.

Sekhon, a resident of Bakersfield, was arrested on December 15 and booked at a pre-trial detention facility on charges of raping an unconscious victim, with an aggravating factor that the victim was particularly vulnerable. He appeared in court for arraignment and pleaded not guilty.

His bail has been set at $500,000, and his next hearing is scheduled for December 29. Authorities have released his photo but have not disclosed the rideshare company he was driving for or details about his immigration or work status.

The arrest comes amid increasing scrutiny of Indian-origin rideshare and cab drivers in the United States and Canada over issues ranging from traffic violations to allegations of obtaining licences without passing tests. California Governor Gavin Newsom also faced criticism on social media after the incident surfaced, with several posts highlighting concerns about public safety and calling California a “sanctuary" state.

Police are urging anyone with information or additional complaints related to Sekhon to contact investigators as they continue to review evidence and identify potential victims.

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