A rideshare driver believed to be of Indian origin has been arrested in California on charges of raping an unconscious passenger, sparking a major investigation amid concerns that more victims may exist. The suspect, Simranjit Singh Sekhon, a Bakersfield resident, was booked following an investigation by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Sexual Assault Unit.

Authorities say the alleged incident occurred in the early hours of November 27 after Sekhon picked up a young woman from a bar in Thousand Oaks. According to police statements cited by Fox 11 News, Sekhon collected the woman at approximately 1 am (local time to drive her home to Camarillo. Investigators said the victim was heavily intoxicated and unable to care for herself.

“The female s intoxicated and unable to care for herself,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement. Detectives believe the woman fell asleep during the ride due to her condition.

Ride Marked Complete, Driver Allegedly Continued Trip

Investigators allege that although the ride was marked as completed in the rideshare system, Sekhon continued driving the unconscious passenger around Camarillo. It was during this extended drive, police claim, that the sexual assault took place.

“The ride should have ended, but instead the suspect continued driving the unconscious victim around Camarillo and sexually assaulted her,” authorities said.

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Investigation And Arrest

The case was reported in November 2025, prompting detectives to review evidence and identify the suspect. Sekhon was arrested in Los Angeles County on December 15, 2025, before being transferred to Ventura County custody.

Law enforcement officials have said they believe there may be additional unreported victims. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case or similar incidents to contact investigators.

Charges, Bail And Court Proceedings

Sekhon has been charged with rape of an unconscious person, with prosecutors highlighting the aggravating factor that the victim was particularly vulnerable. During his arraignment, Sekhon pleaded not guilty.

A judge ordered that Sekhon remain in custody and set bail at USD 500,000. His next court appearance, an early disposition conference, is scheduled for December 29.  The case has triggered intense discussion on social media, with some users criticising California Governor Gavin Newsom and the state’s public safety policies. Authorities have stressed that the investigation is ongoing and that Sekhon is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

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