Uber Driver Accused of Kidnapping Passenger in Bend

Bend, Oregon– Bend Police arrested an Uber driver, identified as 48-year-old La Pine resident Rocky Heath, on suspicion of kidnapping. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening.

According to police reports, the ordeal began around 9 p.m. on February 13 when officers responded to a distress call from a woman who had ordered an Uber ride to her Bend residence, a mere five minutes from the pickup location. The driver, identified in the app as “Rocky,” arrived at 6:26 p.m., but within minutes, the situation took a turn for the worse.

At 6:29 p.m., Rocky abruptly canceled the ride and proceeded to drive the passenger around for 25 to 30 minutes, disregarding her repeated pleas to be taken home. It wasn’t until a half-hour later that he finally relented and dropped her off at her intended destination.

Law enforcement quickly initiated a search for Rocky and his vehicle. Their efforts culminated in a traffic stop at approximately 11:18 p.m. in the area of NW Minnesota and NW Lava, where Rocky was apprehended behind the wheel of a 2023 Polestar 2.

Rocky Heath now faces serious charges, including second-degree kidnapping and second-degree disorderly conduct. He has been remanded to the custody of the Deschutes County Jail pending further legal proceedings. Additionally, officers have impounded the vehicle in question and notified Uber of the disturbing allegations.

“This is an ongoing investigation,” stated authorities, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.

This arrest serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with rideshare services, prompting renewed scrutiny of safety protocols within the industry by some.

For now, the focus remains on unraveling the full extent of the incident and ensuring justice for the victim.