Former Orlando City B forward Ben Polk was arrested for aggravated battery early Saturday morning after he allegedly, repeatedly punch a taxi driver’s face over a $57 cab fare, according to a report by the Orlando Sentinel’s Michael Williams and Alicia DelGallo.
According to the Sentinel’s report, deputies said Polk, 25, dislodged a front tooth and bloodied the mouth of the driver. Deputies found the driver standing next to his taxi with blood on his face and shirt. Polk was reportedly picked up from downtown Orlando with another man, and when they arrived at their destination in Lake Mary, both passengers became angry.
Per the Sentinel, a passerby called 911 while the driver was bleeding on the ground. Polk was arrested on a charge of aggravated battery and was taken to the Seminole County Jail. He was released after posting a $15,000 bail.
Polk started three of his eight appearances for United Soccer League side Orlando City B this season. He played 290 minutes and took one shot. In 2016 for Portland Timbers 2, he was much more involved, starting 11 of 25 appearances for 1,148 minutes and scoring one goal.
According to an Orlando City SC spokeswoman, Polk was no longer a member of the club when he was arrested. OCB’s season ended in a 2-0 loss to the Tampa Bay Rowdies on Oct. 12. The USL Lions failed to make the playoffs this season after doing so in their inaugural campaign last year.
“Orlando City SC is aware of and will continue to monitor the situation,” City communications manager Jackie Maynard said, per the Sentinel. “However, because the incident occurred after Polk’s contract expired on Thursday night following the conclusion of OCB’s season, the club will not issue any further comment.”
This is the third law enforcement-related incident that the club has seen this year. In mid-June, first-team forward Cyle Larinarrested and charged with a DUI was . Midfielder Will Johnson was then arrested and faced domestic-violence charges in early September.
For more on OCB, as they look to rebound over the offseason, follow Victor Tan on Twitter at @NDR_VictorTan.
