Man Charged with Sex Assault of Colorado Lawmaker Posing as Lyft Driver

Adams County prosecutors have charged Mukhammadali Mukadyrov, 42, with felony unlawful sexual contact following allegations that he posed as a Lyft driver and sexually assaulted Colorado state Rep. Jenny Willford in February 2024. Mukadyrov allegedly used another individual's Lyft account and vehicle to pick up Willford, making lewd comments before assaulting her near her home and blocking her from exiting the car. Willford has sued Lyft and a local transportation company, claiming they failed to adequately protect passengers and allowed imposter drivers to operate on their platforms. Lyft responded by stating such behavior violates their terms and leads to permanent bans, while also emphasizing their cooperation with law enforcement. Willford's case has spurred legislation to require stricter vetting and possible audio-visual recording for rideshare journeys, a measure opposed by ride-hailing companies with Uber threatening to withdraw from Colorado if it becomes law. The bill has passed the state legislature and awaits Governor Jared Polis' signature.