An executive from the Taco Bell name Benjamin Golden has recently lost his job after being involved in an assault incident with an Uber driver in California. CNBC.com reported that the company removed him from the position after the video, which was posted by the Uber driver, went viral online.
The company sent a statement to the CNBC thru email saying, “Given the behavior of the individual, it is clear he can no longer work for us. We have also offered and encouraged him to seek professional help.” CNBC tried to reach out to Golden to be able to find out his side of the story, but to no avail. His LinkedIn account was deactivated, while his Twitter link is set on private.
According to a biography found online, Golden was a “seven-year veteran of Yum Brands, Taco Bell’s parent company.” It says that he is also horse racing enthusiast and that he has gained many experience with investor relations and public relations.
In the viral video, Golden was seen taking a ride from an Uber driver who was identified as Edward Caban in California last Friday. The driver kept on asking Golden for the directions, while the latter seems to be drunk and could not provide accurate instructions on where they are heading.
The 23-year-old driver then took a turn with his car and Golden fell into his side. Caban then stopped the car and said, “You’re too drunk to give me directions… I’m, kicking you out, man.” Golden argued, but Caban said he’s serious that he wants him out of the car. Golden then opened the door but before getting out, he leaned forward and said, “Let me tell you something, you little…” What happens next is continuous violence of Golden to the driver which ended when Caban tried to blast the pepper spray into his face.
Golden got out of the car and Caban shouted, “Call the police!”
NBC4 reported that Costa Mesa Police arrived on the location and found Golden vomiting from the pepper spray. He was immediately arrested for public intoxication and assault.
