Uber Driver Accused of Locking Teen in Vehicle, Offering Money

Montgomery man faces unlawful restraint charge after alleged incident in Cincinnati

Apr. 3, 2026 at 8:08pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up of a car door handle, dramatically lit by a harsh camera flash against a dark background, conceptually representing the unlawful restraint of a passenger.A troubling incident of alleged passenger abuse exposes vulnerabilities in the ride-share industry's safety protocols.Cincinnati Today

A 16-year-old girl reported that her Uber driver, Itunu Akintola, locked her in the vehicle and offered her money to go with him instead of taking her home as requested. Akintola is now wanted by police on an unlawful restraint charge.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about passenger safety and the potential for abuse by ride-share drivers. It also highlights the need for stronger background checks and oversight of gig economy workers who have direct contact with vulnerable individuals.

The details

According to court documents, the alleged incident occurred on Thursday when Akintola was supposed to drive the 16-year-old girl to her home in Cincinnati. Instead, he is accused of locking the doors and offering her money to go with him, which she refused at least three times before he finally unlocked the door and let her leave.

  • The alleged incident took place on Thursday, April 3, 2026.

The players

Itunu Akintola

A Montgomery man who was working as an Uber driver and is now wanted by police on an unlawful restraint charge.

16-year-old girl

The passenger who reported that Akintola locked her in his vehicle and offered her money to go with him instead of taking her home as requested.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Police are actively searching for Itunu Akintola and urge anyone with information about his whereabouts to come forward.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for stronger safety measures and oversight in the ride-share industry to protect vulnerable passengers, especially minors, from potential exploitation or harm by drivers.