Cab Driver Charged with Assault in California

Simranjit Singh Sekhon, a cab driver from California, has been charged with the alleged rape of an unconscious passenger. The 35-year-old Indian-origin driver pleaded not guilty. He is accused of sexually assaulting an intoxicated passenger. Sekhon remains in custody with bail set at USD 500,000.

In a disturbing case out of California, a 35-year-old Indian-origin cab driver has been charged with the alleged rape of an unconscious passenger. The district attorney's office announced the charges against Simranjit Singh Sekhon, a resident of Bakersfield.

Sekhon, who works for a cab-hailing service, pleaded not guilty during his initial court appearance. The incident reportedly occurred after he picked up the victim from outside a bar and continued driving beyond the intended destination, subsequently sexually assaulting the intoxicated passenger.

Sekhon was taken into custody with a bail set at USD 500,000. District Attorney Erik Nasarenko detailed the charges, including the aggravating factor of the victim's vulnerability. An early disposition conference is slated for December 29.

(With inputs from agencies.)