American Students Face Prolonged Legal Battle in Denmark

Two American college students are navigating a complex legal situation in Denmark after an incident involving an Uber ride during their spring break trip. Owen Ray, 19, a student at Miami University in Ohio, and his friend were recently released from prison but now face the added complication of having their passports seized by Danish authorities.

According to family reports, the trouble began on March 31st when the students requested an Uber. After realizing they had entered an incorrect destination, they asked the driver to take them to a different hotel. The driver refused and the ride was cancelled, resulting in a cancellation fee. As the pair were walking toward their intended location and waiting for another ride, the original driver reportedly began following them, alleging he hadn’t received payment and threatening to contact the police.

According to Ray, they attempted to de-escalate the situation. “We said, ‘We’ve done nothing wrong. We’ve done nothing wrong.’ He then started an altercation with us,” Ray told Good Morning America.

The situation escalated into a physical confrontation, after which the students returned to their hotel. The following morning, upon arriving at Copenhagen Airport, they were arrested by Danish authorities and charged with simple assault. A spokesperson for the Copenhagen police confirmed this account.

Initially sentenced to 10 days of pre-trial detention, the students’ confinement was extended until April 24th. After two weeks in a Danish prison, they were released but are now required to check in with authorities daily and remain unable to return home due to the confiscation of their passports.

“Since they are still charged in the case, it is standard procedure to confiscate the passports until the court hearing,” explained a Copenhagen police spokesperson.

The students’ parents have expressed deep concern over the situation. “We remain deeply concerned that Danish authorities have confiscated his passport and will not allow him to return to the United States – something we understand is unusual in Danish court proceedings,” they stated.

Key Points of Contention:

• The students were arrested following a dispute with an Uber driver over a destination change and alleged non-payment.
• A physical altercation reportedly occurred between the students and the driver.
• Danish authorities have confiscated their passports, preventing their return to the United States.
• Their next court hearing is scheduled for April 24th.

Uber has acknowledged the situation, stating, “The safety of everyone who uses the Uber app is a top priority, and we take reports of violence very seriously. The driver reported to Uber that he was assaulted by two riders who were later arrested by Danish police.”

The U.S. State Department confirmed it’s aware of the situation and has offered consular assistance. “Staff at our embassy in Copenhagen are providing consular assistance. The Department has no higher priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens abroad.”

Ray’s attorney did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The incident was reportedly captured on the Uber driver’s dashcam, which has been submitted as evidence in the case. Owen Ray stated his hope for a resolution, saying, “I just hope that Denmark and the legal authorities here are able to – and the U.S. government can help us and do what they can to help us be released by Easter, so I can be home with my family.”

His parents added, “The facts make clear that Owen is the victim in this case, and we urge Danish officials to allow him to return home to the United States without delay.”