EAST LANSING, Mich. – The East Lansing Police Department (ELPD) is currently investigating two reports of Criminal Sexual Conduct (CSC) involving drivers with a Transportation Network Company, commonly known as a rideshare service.
The ELPD Detective Bureau’s open investigation into these cases has revealed several similarities. In both cases, the victims were female Michigan State University students who were picked up near downtown East Lansing by a rideshare driver and, in both cases, the victims reported that the driver made unwelcome sexual advances towards them.
ELPD would like to make sure that the public is aware that rideshare services do not undergo the same regulatory procedures as traditional taxi companies with the Greater Lansing Taxi Authority. Community members are encouraged to be cautious when riding with strangers and should consider always riding with a friend.
This remains an open investigation and this will be the only information released at this time. If anyone else in the community feels they have been victimized, they are encouraged to contact ELPD at (517) 351-4220.