A DoorDash driver was caught on a customer’s doorbell camera spraying pepper‑spray at a delivery, a move she claimed was aimed at a spider, according to investigators.
The Incident
The event took place in Evansville, Indiana, on December 7, when Kourtney Stevenson, 29, was making a DoorDash delivery. A doorbell camera recorded her using a spray can while she stood on the curb outside the customer’s home. The camera footage shows the spray being aimed directly at the package as it was handed over.
Driver’s Claim
When questioned by the Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office, Stevenson told detectives that she had been trying to target a spider with pepper spray. She added that she is “terrified of spiders,” according to the agency’s news release. The sheriff’s office noted that the overnight low temperature was 35°F, a level at which outdoor spiders in Indiana are not active and would not be capable of crawling on exposed surfaces.
Arrest and Charges
Stevenson was arrested after she canceled an in‑person interview with the detectives. She faces four felony counts: two for battery resulting in moderate injury and two for consumer product tampering. The charges were filed by the sheriff’s office following the review of the video evidence.
Legal Status
She is being held without bond in Kentucky prior to her extradition to Indiana, the sheriff’s office said. It was not immediately clear whether Stevenson has a lawyer who can speak on her behalf. The extradition process will involve transport from Kentucky to Indiana and a court appearance in Vanderburgh County.
DoorDash’s Response
In an earlier statement, DoorDash said it had revoked Stevenson’s access to the platform. The company added, “We have absolutely zero tolerance for this type of appalling behavior.” The revocation means Stevenson can no longer accept delivery requests through the DoorDash app.
Customer Impact
The customer whose delivery was sprayed told NBC News that his wife started choking and threw up after she took a bite of the meal last weekend. The incident raises concerns about food safety and the integrity of delivery services. The customer’s wife’s reaction was described as a direct consequence of the sprayed product.
Sheriff’s Statement
Vanderburgh County Sheriff Noah Robinson said, “Residents should be able to trust that the food they order for their families is safe.” He continued, “When someone violates that trust and endangers others, we will respond with urgency and we will pursue charges.” Sheriff Robinson emphasized the seriousness of the alleged tampering.
Community Reaction
Local residents expressed shock over the incident, noting that DoorDash deliveries are a common part of daily life in Evansville. Many called for stricter oversight of delivery drivers to prevent similar events. The community’s trust in the delivery system was highlighted in the sheriff’s comments.
Legal Implications
The battery charges involve moderate injury, meaning the alleged assault caused physical harm that was not life‑threatening but still significant. Consumer product tampering charges indicate that Stevenson’s actions altered the condition of a purchased product in a way that could endanger consumers.
Extradition Process
The extradition from Kentucky to Indiana requires coordination between the two states’ law enforcement agencies. Stevenson will be transported to Indiana for a hearing where the charges will be formally presented. The process is governed by state statutes on interstate extradition.
Bond Considerations
Because Stevenson is being held without bond, the court has determined that she poses a risk of flight or further wrongdoing. Bond hearings in Indiana will decide whether she can be released pending trial.
DoorDash Platform Impact
With her access revoked, Stevenson can no longer receive delivery assignments. DoorDash’s policy states that drivers who violate safety standards may be permanently banned. This action underscores the company’s commitment to consumer safety.
Potential Outcomes
If convicted, Stevenson could face prison time and fines for the battery and tampering charges. The exact sentencing would depend on the outcome of the trial and any mitigating factors presented. The case could also lead to additional scrutiny of delivery practices.
Current Status
As of the latest update, Stevenson remains in custody in Kentucky awaiting extradition. No lawyer has been publicly identified, and no statement has been released on her behalf. The case is pending further legal proceedings.
Key Takeaways
- DoorDash driver Kourtney Stevenson was arrested after spraying pepper‑spray on a delivery, claiming it targeted a spider.
- She faces four felony charges: two for battery and two for consumer product tampering.
- DoorDash revoked her platform access, emphasizing zero tolerance for such behavior.
Closing
The incident in Evansville serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with delivering food to consumers. Law enforcement and delivery companies alike must uphold strict standards to protect public safety and maintain trust in the growing gig economy. The outcome of Stevenson’s case will likely influence future policies and enforcement actions across the industry.
