A Boston Police officer accused of physically attacking an Uber driver and taking his car has been arrested and placed on administrative leave.
Police arrested 40-year-old Michael Doherty, a 16-year veteran of the department, on Sunday.
The driver for the ride-sharing service reported that Doherty, a passenger, accused him of bringing him to the wrong location. The victim told police that Doherty yelled at him and physically assaulted him.
The victim, who told police that he got out of the car to get away, said Doherty climbed into the front seat and drove off. A passing driver helped the victim follow Doherty, who police say stopped, got out and fled on foot.
Doherty is charged with assault and battery and using a motor vehicle without authority.
Police are investigating.
Uber spokesman Taylor Bennett issued the following statement regarding the assault on Monday:
U.S. & World
"Our thoughts are with our valued partner during his recovery and we are supporting him in any way we can during this time. We have a strict policy to remove any rider that exhibits aggressive or abusive behavior from the platform and we have permanently blocked this rider's access. We stand ready to assist law enforcement in their investigation."
