A former executive for Oakes Farms claims he stole for its owner, not from its owner.
In his answer to an amended lawsuit filed in federal court, Steven A. Veneziano, Jr., contends his accusers got it wrong.
In the civil suit, Veneziano is accused of fraud and embezzlement for stealing millions from Naples-based Oakes Farms and its local affiliates.
Veneziano paints another story.
In his answer, he points the finger back at the plaintiffs and his former boss, Alfie Oakes.
With them, he claims to have committed numerous crimes, including government and insurance fraud, for their mutual benefit, and the benefit of “other coconspirators.”
More about the lawsuit involving Oakes Farms
The suit alleges that Veneziano used his “nearly unfettered access” to the Oakes’ accounts, information and administration to steal money and support a lavish lifestyle and gambling habit starting in 2022, after…
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