New Trial Ordered After Rideshare Driver’s Miranda Rights Violated in Cambridge
In 2022, a Lyft driver was convicted of rape in Massachusetts. However, he was acquitted of indecent assault and battery, and he subsequently appealed the conviction. In April of 2025, the Commonwealth concluded that his Miranda Rights had been violated during a police interview, and they ordered a new trial.
The Background of the Case
In the summer of 2019, a 20-year-old college student and Boston resident became highly intoxicated after drinking a bottle of wine at a friend’s apartment. She then booked a ride home using the Lyft app, citing the need to take care of her elderly dog. Because of her intoxication, she entered the wrong address and could not correct it. As a result, she decided to verbally tell the driver her address when she got into the car.
At this point in time, Lyft drivers often transported multiple passengers together in different vehicles. When she got in, the driver took her to the incorrect address she had entered. She then instructed the driver to drive to Beacon Street so she could point out her apartment building. The driver agreed, but stated that he needed to drop off the other passengers first. Accepting this, the passenger sat back and passed out.
When she awoke, many hours had passed. She was still in the vehicle, and it was now 7:00 AM. The driver demanded a high payment for being in the vehicle for so long, but agreed to drop her off. She then texted the driver asking about what had happened, implying that she was concerned about a potential rape.
Next, she visited the Massachusetts General Hospital, where white fluid was removed from her vagina. The police became involved and questioned the Lyft driver. During an interview, the driver told police that he had not raped her. Detectives subsequently took a DNA sample from the man, and they later alleged that this DNA was a possible match. The DNA profile of both the sperm and the cheek swab was “extremely rare,” according to the authorities.
This led to the defendant’s arrest. At this time, officers informed the defendant of his Miranda rights. The defendant agreed to another interview, but only if the detectives could not show him proof that the DNA samples matched. The detectives failed to provide the defendant with the DNA report but continued with the interview anyway.
This proved to be a vital detail. When the defendant appealed his conviction, the court agreed that his subsequent admissions during that interview should not have been entered into evidence. This led to the Commonwealth deciding that a second trial should take place.
Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Help With Rape Allegations?
Rape is one of the most serious charges one can face in Massachusetts. If you find yourself in this situation, you should consider contacting an experienced defense attorney in Boston. These legal professionals may be able to help you execute various defense strategies and file successful appeals. For more information, consider contacting Edward R. Molari today.