Man charged with secret peeping no longer drives for Uber

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The New Hanover County man facing charges after investigators say he secretly recorded a sexual encounter with a heavily intoxicated college student he picked up while driving for Uber is no longer with the company.

Uber told WWAY Friday that 72-year-old Gerald William Smelson is not employed with the company and issued this statement:

“What police have detailed is disturbing and deplorable. The driver does not have access to the app and we will work with law enforcement to help with their investigation.”

The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office says Smelson picked up two 19-year-olds from Wrightsville Beach and drove them home. When they arrived, one of the girls got out of the car and went inside, while the other tried to get out and then fell on the ground.

The girl was passed out, Brewer said, so Smelson picked her up, put her back in his car, and took her back to his house.

Smelson allegedly recorded himself having sex with the girl. The next morning, when she came to, Smelson took her home, Brewer said.

Investigators believe there may be other victims out there. If you know anything, contact the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office or submit a tip.