Uber driver accused of sex assault in Prince William
An Uber driver is accused of sexually assaulting a passenger over the weekend, according to Prince William County police.
Cristian Yovani Zelda Avalo, 37, of 10223 Ginny Way in Manassas, was arrested Tuesday and charged with object sexual penetration and abduction with intent to defile, police spokesperson Sgt. Jonathan Perok said.
Zelda Avalo, who police identify as an Uber driver, picked up the 22-year-old victim around 3:15 a.m. Saturday in Manassas for a trip to her Woodbridge home. He is accused of holding the victim down in the vehicle while he allegedly sexually assaulted her, Perok said.
The victim texted an acquaintance to meet her at her home and Zelda Avalo left the area after dropping her off, Perok said.
The victim reported the attack Monday.
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In a statement to InsideNoVa, an Uber spokesperson said, “This report is appalling and our thoughts are with the rider during this difficult time. The driver has been removed from the app and we’ll work to help police in any way we can with their investigation.”
Zelda Avalo is being held without bond and his court date is pending.
