Full Breakdown
Georgia Inmates Kidnap Lyft Driver During Escape to Florida
12/28/2025, 11:54:38 PM
Overview of the Incident
Three inmates—Stevenson Charles, 24, Yusuf Minor, 31, and Naod Yohannes, 25—escaped from DeKalb County Jail in Georgia and subsequently kidnapped a Lyft driver during their flight to Florida. The escape occurred on December 22, 2023, and culminated in a harrowing 10-hour ordeal for the driver, who was threatened and forced to comply with the inmates' demands.
Details of the Kidnapping
After escaping the jail, the trio was picked up by an unidentified individual and taken to Minor's girlfriend's residence, where a Lyft ride was arranged for their journey to South Florida. According to court documents, the Lyft driver was misled into believing she was picking up a woman. Upon her arrival, she was confronted by the three men, who quickly overpowered her. One of the inmates wrapped a rope around her neck and threatened to kill her if she did not comply with their orders. The driver was bound, dragged into the backseat, and warned against struggling, with threats of rape and torture made against her.
During the ordeal, the inmates forced the driver to transfer money from her savings account to a debit card and used her credit cards to rent a short-term property in Miramar, Florida. The driver later reported that she was held captive for approximately six to ten hours before authorities intervened.
Arrest and Charges
The FBI tracked the stolen vehicle using license plate readers, leading to the arrests of Charles and Yohannes in Miami. During the pursuit, Charles discarded a handgun while attempting to flee. Minor was apprehended shortly thereafter at the rental property where the victim was found. All three men now face federal kidnapping charges, in addition to their existing charges of murder and armed robbery.
Official Responses
A spokesperson for Lyft expressed concern over the incident, stating, "Our hearts are with the driver and we have reached out to offer support." The company is cooperating with law enforcement as the investigation continues. DeKalb County Sheriff Melody Maddox noted that the jail facility is currently undergoing repairs to prevent similar escapes in the future, emphasizing the need for improved security measures.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have raised concerns about the conditions at DeKalb County Jail, which has been described as "deteriorating." The escape has prompted discussions about the adequacy of security protocols in place to prevent such incidents.
What's Next
The initial appearance for Yusuf Minor and Naod Yohannes is scheduled for December 29, 2023, before a federal magistrate judge in Fort Lauderdale. The case continues to develop as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the escape and the subsequent kidnapping.
Verbatim Quotes
- “She endured increased threats of being shot, raped, and tortured,” — FBI Agent
- "Our hearts are with the driver and we have reached out to offer support." — Lyft Spokesperson
- "The incident continues to be investigated." — Cynthia Williams, DeKalb County Jail Spokesperson
