Lyft Driver Charged with Multiple Counts, Including Sexual Assault, During Drive to Santa Monica

Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon has started issuing press releases about criminals that he's charging with crimes. During the first 3 years of his tenure, he rarely boasted of putting criminals behind bars but more often issued releases about dirty cops and victim services. Below is his press release regarding an alleged sexual assault that occurred during a Lyft ride to Santa Monica.

Fernando Macias Morales, 34, of North Hills

April 10, 2024 - Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón today announced felony sexual assault charges against a Lyft driver after a female passenger accused him of attacking her during a ride from West Hollywood to Santa Monica on Sept. 7, 2023.

"We entrust rideshare drivers with our safety, relying on their professionalism and integrity to provide safe transportation," District Attorney Gascón said. "Individuals who perpetrate acts of violence, especially against those who rely on transportation services for their everyday needs, will be held accountable."

Fernando Macias Morales (dob 5/18/1989) of North Hills faces one count each of kidnapping to commit a sex offense, sexual penetration of an intoxicated person, and oral copulation of an intoxicated person in case 24ARCF00503.

The defendant pleaded not guilty during his arraignment April 9, Dept. 30 of the Airport Courthouse. His preliminary hearing setting was scheduled for April 23, Dept. 31 of the same courthouse. His bail was set at $500,000. If convicted on all charges, he faces a maximum sentence of 32 years to life in state prison.

The case is being investigated by the Santa Monica Police Department.

Anyone who believes they may be a victim of Fernando Macias Morales should call Det. Stephanie Davis at the SMPD at 310-458-2201, extension 4400.