Rideshare driver allegedly drugged and sexually harassed passenger

LUCERNE CO. (WOLF) — Pennsylvania State Police have arrested a rideshare driver accused of drugging and sexually assaulting a female passenger. Officials are asking any potential victims to come forward.

In a press release, police alleged that 39-year-old Edwin Valentin Perez of Hazle Township sexually assaulted a male victim on Tuesday while working as a rideshare driver for Lyft.

Police believe the victim was incapacitated by an “inhalant-like substance” administered by Valentin Perez while driving and that the victim was attacked while under the influence of drugs.

Valentin Perez was taken into custody without incident on Wednesday and booked into the Luzerne County Correctional Facility.

According to police, Valentine Perez was driving a red 2012 Toyota RAV 4 while working as a Lyft driver. Anyone who suspects they may have been the victim of a crime under similar circumstances or has information about this incident is asked to contact Troop P Wilkes-Barre Criminal Investigation Division at 570-822-5515.

FOX56 has reached out to Lyft for comment.

This is a developing story, so check back later for updates.