A DoorDash driver was kidnapped and raped last week, and when her family tried to rescue her, the attacker shot at them.
Joseph Killins, 38, was arrested on Saturday for the rape and kidnapping that took place on April 18 in an apartment complex in Tampa. Killins held the driver at gunpoint and demanded cash.
When she could not provide the money, he forced her into a car and drove to the Belara Lake Apartment complex where he raped her. Meanwhile, the victim’s family tracked her location using her cellphone and came to her rescue but were fired at by Killins.
The following day, the police received a report that a man matching the description of the suspect wanted in the kidnapping and rape had thrown a woman in her early 40s to the ground, punched her in the face, and stole her backpack at the apartment complex.
Surveillance footage identified Killins at the scene, and he was last seen running towards the Haven Waters Edge Apartment complex.
After detectives from the two cases worked together, Killins was found at the Tampa Inn hotel on Friday night and brought into custody.
Police found that he had items connecting him to the kidnapping and rape and, when questioned, he ‘disclosed details that were specific to the crimes that occurred on April 18.’
Killins is now facing charges of armed kidnapping, robbery with a firearm, armed sexual battery, aggravated battery with a weapon, and robbery in the April 19 incident.
Interim Chief Lee Bercaw of the Tampa Police Department said in a statement that this arrest is thanks to the tireless efforts of every employee and members of the community.
The DoorDash spokesperson said that the company is appalled by the crime and will support the Dasher in any way they can.
This story highlights the danger faced by gig economy workers, who can be vulnerable to attacks while delivering food or other services.
It is important for companies to prioritize safety measures for their workers and for individuals to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. It is also important for society to support survivors of sexual assault and hold perpetrators accountable for their crimes.
Commentary
The story of the DoorDash driver’s kidnapping and rape is truly disturbing and highlights the risks that gig economy workers, such as delivery drivers, can face while performing their jobs.
It is concerning that such violence can occur while someone is simply trying to earn a living. Companies such as DoorDash should take measures to ensure the safety of their workers, including training and providing resources to recognize and report suspicious activities.
It is also important to acknowledge the bravery of the victim’s family in trying to rescue her, even though they were met with violence from the perpetrator.
It is a reminder that sexual violence does not only affect individuals but can also have an impact on their loved ones. The fact that the suspect was eventually arrested and charged with multiple crimes is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the Tampa Police Department.
Lastly, it is important to continue to support survivors of sexual assault and hold perpetrators accountable for their crimes.
Sexual violence can have long-lasting and traumatic effects on individuals and communities, and it is crucial that society takes a proactive approach to addressing this issue.
This includes providing resources and support to survivors, holding perpetrators accountable, and working to change the culture and systems that perpetuate sexual violence.