Rideshare Driver Accused of Sex Crimes Against 16-Year-Old Girl: Details and Reactions

Rideshare Driver Accused of Sex Crimes Against 16-Year-Old Girl

PHOENIX — A rideshare driver is facing serious charges after allegedly committing sex crimes against a 16-year-old girl he was supposed to be taking home from school. Benjamin Muritala, 35, is now in custody and facing multiple charges in connection to the incidents that occurred on April 15 and 16.

According to the victim, on April 15, she fell asleep during the ride back to her group home from school and was awoken by Muritala calling her name. She then described how Muritala pulled the vehicle onto a neighborhood street about 40 minutes away from her home, where he asked her to undress and engage in sexual acts. Before dropping her off at her home, Muritala allegedly threatened her, telling her not to tell anyone about what had happened.

The following day, Muritala picked up the girl from school again, where she once again fell asleep and woke up to Muritala calling her name. This time, he stopped behind various stores and asked her if they could engage in the same activities as the day before. The girl reported the incidents to group home staff shortly after the second incident.

Muritala denied touching the girl when located by police, but after providing access to his phone, inappropriate photos and videos of children were found. He now faces charges of sexual abuse, sexual conduct with a minor, and sexual exploitation of a minor.

HopSkipDrive, the rideshare service Muritala drove for, expressed devastation and deep disturbance over the allegations. They have since removed Muritala’s access to their platform and are cooperating with law enforcement in the investigation.

The Scottsdale Unified School District, which contracts with HopSkipDrive for transportation services, also released a statement expressing shock and cooperation with the ongoing investigation. They are reviewing safety measures with the company to ensure the well-being of their students.

The Arizona Department of Health Services confirmed that Muritala is no longer employed at the Arizona State Hospital and did not come into contact with any minor patients during his time there.

This disturbing case highlights the importance of safety measures in rideshare services and the need for vigilance in protecting vulnerable individuals. ABC15 has previously reported on the HopSkipDrive program, shedding light on the transportation services provided to underserved communities.