Deliveroo rider bites off Aldershot customer's thumb

A Deliveroo substitute rider, Jenniffer Rocha, has admitted to grievously injuring an Aldershot man by biting off his thumb.

The Winchester Crown Court heard this severe case, which may lead to imprisonment. Deliveroo has distanced themselves from the incident, emphasizing that Rocha was not their employee but a substitute using another's account, and is currently banned from their service.

The victim, 36-year-old Stephen Jenkinson, encountered Rocha after a mix-up with his pizza delivery. What started as a dispute over a delivery code escalated into violence, resulting in Rocha biting and severing Jenkinson's thumb. Jenkinson, recounting the attack, likened the injury to a chainsaw accident.

This case has also highlighted broader issues regarding food delivery services like Deliveroo, which hires riders as independent contractors, allowing them to nominate substitutes. Although Rocha had legal permission to work in the UK, her independent contractor status complicates the company's liability.

Following the attack, Jenkinson, a plumber, has been unable to work. He has undergone reconstructive surgery replacing the lost digit with a part of his toe. The injury has left him with a significant financial burden, and the following stress contributed to the breakdown of his relationship.

Jenkinson's legal representative, Alex Barley, argues that gig economy companies should be accountable for their workers' conduct, calling for an end to the practice of substitution and proper vetting of all workers.

Deliveroo maintains that their riders are self-employed, which is a status affirmed by UK courts, and substitution is a standard aspect of self-employment across various sectors.

The sentencing for Rocha is set for May 3.