Key West police arrest unlicensed Uber driver

Police say Martin Maness arrested after picking up undercover detectives near airport

Uber driver Drew Maness was arrested Friday after picking up undercover detectives near the Key West airport.

KEY WEST, Fla. – Key West police made the first arrest of an Uber driver Friday since city officials warned the ride-sharing company that unlicensed drivers could be jailed.

Uber driver Martin Maness, 51, was arrested after picking up undercover detectives near the Key West airport, police spokeswoman Alyson Crean said Monday.

Recommended Videos



Crean said Mannes told detectives that he wasn't aware driving for Uber was illegal and claimed the money was worth the risk.

POLL: Do you think Uber drivers without proper licenses should be arrested?

Detectives arranged the undercover ride after receiving complaints that Uber drivers were still picking up passengers at the airport.

City commissioners approved an ordinance last year that requires Uber and other passenger vehicle-for-hire drivers to carry licenses.

Crean said police had previously been citing Uber drivers and city officials issued their final warning in June.

Operating without the required licenses is a second-degree misdemeanor. Illegal drivers face a fine of up to $500 and/or 60 days in jail.

Follow Local 10 News on Twitter @WPLGLocal10