FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
HOUSTON, TEXAS — Nov. 5, 2025 — The Galveston County District Attorney’s Office has announced its intent to decline prosecution against Sameh Chami, an Uber driver who was charged with aggravated kidnapping with intent to commit sexual assault following an incident in June that drew national attention.
The case prosecutor informed Michael & Associates this week that a decline to prosecute letter was filed on Nov. 5 after defense counsel presented evidence conclusively showing that Mr. Chami could not have committed the alleged offense.
“Surveillance video from a nearby daycare confirms that the timeline of events made the allegations against our client impossible,” said Brett Landriault, a senior trial attorney who represents Mr. Chami, adding that forensic results further supported Mr. Chami’s innocence.
Mr. Chami’s case made headlines following Fox News coverage and a press release from the U.S. Department of Justice referencing Mr. Chami’s immigration status. The prosecutors' decision to drop the charges marks a significant step toward clearing his name.
Despite the dismissal, Mr. Chami – who is originally from Lebanon – remains in custody at the Galveston County Jail, where he is being held on an immigration detainer. It is expected that he will be transferred to an ICE detention facility in the coming days due to allegations that he is in the United States unlawfully after overstaying his immigration visa. The FBI is currently reviewing the case to determine whether any federal charges will be pursued, though none have been filed at this time.
“We’re relieved that the state has recognized what we’ve maintained from the very beginning — that Mr. Chami is innocent of these allegations,” said Ben Michael, Managing Partner of Michael & Associates. “We remain hopeful that federal authorities will also see that the facts do not support any criminal conduct.”
Michael & Associates is a Texas-based criminal defense firm representing individuals accused of serious crimes across the state. The firm is dedicated to ensuring justice through evidence-driven advocacy and protecting the rights of every client.
Michael & Associates Media Contact: Rebecca Stumpf
214-542-2502
[email protected]
www.zealousadvocate.com
