Newark, NJ - Karon Bell, a Newark Police Officer, Accused of Sexually Touching a Female Uber Driver

Police Officer Charged With Sexually Touching Uber Driver

According to NJ. com an Uber Driver has accused a Newark police officer of sexually touching her during a rideshare. The off-duty cop works for the Newark Police Department in Newark, New Jersey. 

On Saturday, December 11, 2021, an Uber driver picked up 23-year-old Karon Bell. According to the police report, she was allegedly touched in a sexual manner during the trip from Mine Hill to Kearny, where she dropped him off. The victim says Bell asked for permission to touch her, but she did not say yes. The sexual touching was said to have continued for the duration of the trip. She told police that he did identify himself as a police officer and even forgot his badge in the backseat of the vehicle. Bell texted and called in an attempt to have her return his badge, but the victim did not answer. 

He was arrested on Friday, February 11, 2022, and charged with criminal sexual contact. 

Can I Sue For Police Sexual Assault?

Attorney contributor Guy D'Andrea is an experienced sexual assault victims attorney who represents victims in civil lawsuits. Brian recently highlighted when a victim can sue for being sexually assaulted by a police officer. 

“Members of law enforcement, like police officers, are positions of power and trust. People look up to them to enforce what is right and defend those being abused. However, there have been reports of police officers sexually assaulting people while on and off duty. Victims of police sexual assault should be aware of their legal rights.”

“Victims of sex crimes should report the abuse in order for a criminal investigation to begin. This investigation is an important part of the process and will allow charges to be brought against the abuser. In some sexual assault cases, victims and their families may have grounds for a civil lawsuit against the police officer and potentially the police officer’s employer. If the police department was aware of the officer having a history of misconduct yet failed to take measures to prevent further abuse, they could be deemed negligent. Additionally, they could be held liable if the department failed to run a background check that could have revealed a history of misconduct prior to hiring the officer. Victims should consult with an experienced sexual assault victims attorney to determine if they have grounds to file a civil lawsuit.”

Sources:

NJ.com