The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office has provided new details surrounding a disturbing incident over the past weekend involving a woman and an individual posing as a ride-share driver. Initially thought to be a kidnapping, the case is now being treated as a possible battery and false imprisonment after further clarification by authorities.
The woman found herself in peril after entering what she believed was an Uber early last Saturday morning. According to WFTV, the suspect is described as a man in his 30s with a handlebar mustache, driving a silver SUV. He allegedly offered the victim a ride, who, soon after getting into the vehicle, demanded to be let out upon his making unwanted sexual comments. As she tried to exit the moving vehicle, she fell out and sustained injuries.
Investigators are actively looking for this suspect and have released a rendering to aid in his identification. Altering their approach to this case, the authorities are also re-interviewing the victim to determine the extent of the crimes committed. The incident took place near Cross Prairie Parkway and was reported by a store clerk from a nearby Rebel gas station.
The local community has expressed concern, with an area resident, Richie Scotti, telling WESH, "Ain't nobody going to be pulling up to you at 4 in the morning unless they're criminals." Scotti added, "Even if she made a mistake and got in the car, anybody could do that."
The Sheriff's Office continues to urge the public to provide any information regarding the suspect or the vehicle. Those with information can contact the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office at 407-348-2222 or anonymously share tips through Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS (8477).
