Caucasian man files racial discrimination lawsuit against Coca-Cola

SHERMAN - A Caucasian man has filed a lawsuit claiming his termination over alleged absences was really due to racial discrimination.

Arthur Smith filed suit against Coca-Cola Refreshments USA Inc., formerly known as Coca-Cola Enterprises Inc., on Feb. 8 in the Eastern District of Texas, Sherman Division.

Smith is a white man who was hired by the defendant in February 2002 for its business located in Sherman. He was employed as a warehouse lead.

According to the lawsuit, Smith was called into a meeting with the warehouse supervisor in April 2011 and told that he had 12 tardy "occurrences" and was fired.

Smith argues that African-American employees were frequently late but did not have action taken against them.

The defendant is accused of unlawful employment practices and violating Smith's civil rights.

The plaintiff is asking for an award of damages for mental anguish, liquidated damages, punitive damages, attorney's fees, court costs and interest.

Smith is represented by Sherman attorney Ronald R. Huff. A jury trial is requested.

U.S. District Judge Michael H. Schneider is assigned to the case.

Case No. 4:12-cv-00063