An inmate in Arizona sued Taco Bell, claiming he came up with the idea for Doritos Locos Tacos.
Gary Cole, who is serving out a 25 year prison term for a slew of charges, alleges that Yum Brands, the parent company of Taco Bell, stole is idea. Frito Lay, which makes Doritos, and Pepsi are also included in the suit, according to the Dallas Observer.
His proof is a notarized document that states “Tacos (sic) shells of all flavors (made of Doritos)” were his creation.
Cole says that it was “stolen through the United States Postal Service Mail and submitted to Frito Lays [sic], Taco Bell, Pepsi Co, Yum Brands,” according to the Huffington Post, which obtained a copy of his complaint.
He said the firms gave “a check ... for a large amount” to the alleged thief of his idea.
The taco idea was contained on a list for his “Divas and Ballers” brand, which includes hot sauces, body oils, and health mixes. It was reportedly sent to Janice B Cole and Keoiana K. Cole, whose relationship with the inmate is unclear, in 2010, according to the Post.
Cole apparently contacted a law firm in the past, but it appears he did not get any legal representation in the case because he is representing himself in the lawsuit, according to the Observer.
The law firm told him in a letter: “Do not ‘put a knife’ to the staff. That won’t do you, or us, any good. I understand your frustration, but we’re working on the retaliation issue and would ask that you leave it in our hands,” according to the publication.
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