# Rideshare driver charged with rape of teen

> A 36-year-old Empower driver was arrested in Maryland after allegedly kidnapping and raping a 17-year-old passenger.
- Title: Rideshare driver charged with rape of teen · The Banner
- Summary: A 36-year-old Empower driver was arrested in Maryland after allegedly kidnapping and raping a 17-year-old passenger. Always verify your rideshare driver's…
- Keywords: abdoulaye dia, empower rideshare, montgomery county, sexual assault, kidnapping, maryland, new york charges, teen victim, rideshare safety, news, local, Rideshare
- Source: The Banner — https://thebanner.com/community/criminal-justice/empower-driver-rape-charge-silver-spring-J7LRQ244NZGQVKPTMIXMYVFCEA
- Author: Antonio Planas
- Published: 2026-09-17T21:47:15.001+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: abdoulaye dia, empower rideshare, montgomery county, sexual assault, kidnapping, maryland, new york charges, teen victim, rideshare safety, news, local
## Driver arrested for rape
Abdoulaye Dia, 36, of Lanham was arrested Wednesday and charged with first-degree rape, kidnapping, second-degree assault, and a third-degree sex offense.
## Teen picked up late at night
The 17-year-old victim was picked up by Dia shortly before midnight on Monday. He drove her to a parking lot in Silver Spring where the rape occurred.
## Driver made uncomfortable comments
The teen told police the driver began asking questions about her relationship status, making her feel uncomfortable before the assault.
## Victim identified him through app
After being dropped off at home, the teen told a family member what happened and identified Dia through the Empower app using his name and photo.
## Prior charges in New York
Dia was also charged in June in New York with first-degree sexual abuse, forcible touching, and acting in a manner to injure a child under 17.
## Police seek other potential victims
Montgomery County Police said there may be other victims and are asking anyone who believes they were victimized by Dia to call 240-773-5050.
## Key takeaway

Always verify your rideshare driver's identity through the app before getting in, and report any uncomfortable behavior immediately.