UPDATE: A Montgomery County jury has just acquitted Robert Travers Corcoran, a 62-year-old Uber driver from West Chester, of indecent assault charges following a ride share incident in Whitpain Township on February 10, 2025. However, he was found guilty of harassment during the same incident, raising urgent questions about passenger safety in ride-sharing services.
The jury took less than 90 minutes to deliberate after a two-day trial, ultimately convicting Corcoran of using lewd language with the intent to annoy and alarm a female passenger. This conviction carries a maximum potential sentence of six months to one year in jail, significantly less than the one to two years prosecutors sought for the indecent assault charge.
Assistant District Attorney Margot Weitz expressed disappointment, stating, “It’s obviously not the outcome that we were looking for. But the jury took their time deliberating, they took this case seriously and we respect their verdict.”
The incident occurred early in the morning when the female passenger and her friend called for an Uber at approximately 1:38 a.m. from the Audubon Ale House. After dropping her friend off at home at 2:02 a.m., Corcoran allegedly groped the woman while she was on a Facetime call with her sister, according to court documents.
Directly after the alleged assault, the victim confronted Corcoran, telling him, “That was crossing the line. I feel like you just took advantage of me.” Following the incident, she sent a text to her sister detailing the inappropriate behavior. The victim also reported that Corcoran made several unprofessional comments during the ride, making her feel unsafe.
As the ride concluded at 2:22 a.m., Corcoran reportedly attempted to kiss the victim and hugged her as she hurried to her front door. The woman later described a night filled with fear, believing Corcoran might return to her home, as he was aware of her address.
Judge Wendy G. Rothstein, who presided over the trial, has deferred sentencing pending a background investigation report on Corcoran. He remains free on bail as the court prepares for the next steps in this troubling case.
This verdict raises significant concerns about the safety of passengers using ride-sharing services, highlighting the need for strict regulations and driver vetting processes in the industry. As communities continue to navigate the complexities of ride-sharing, the implications of this case will resonate widely.
As of now, Corcoran awaits sentencing, and the court’s decision will be closely monitored. For those using ride-sharing services, this incident serves as a reminder to remain vigilant and report any inappropriate behavior immediately.
