Naples, FL - "Bar Rescue" star Jon Taffer has filed a lawsuit against a Southwest Florida man accusing him of impersonating Taffer for personal gain.
The federal lawsuit, filed in the United States District Court, alleges that Victor Caroleo has repeatedly used Taffer's name and likeness to mislead others, particularly within Collier County.
The lawsuit also claims Caroleo has taken women on dates, falsely claiming to be Taffer.
Taffer asserts that Caroleo's actions have damaged his reputation and potentially exposed him to legal consequences.
The lawsuit details instances where Caroleo allegedly impersonated Taffer at various establishments in Naples, including Blue Martini Bar, Burn Cigar Lounge, Seed to Table, and Full Throttle.
Additionally, it claims Caroleo attempted to pursue business ventures while impersonating Taffer.
One specific incident involves a woman who went on a date with Caroleo at Vergina Bar in January.
Text messages included in the lawsuit allege that the woman believed Caroleo to be Taffer and described inappropriate behavior during the date.
The woman also claims Caroleo possessed credit cards bearing Taffer's name.
Caroleo, a self-proclaimed television preacher based in New York, is alleged to have scheduled his sermons to air shortly after "Bar Rescue" broadcasts.
He is further accused of referring to Taffer as his "twin" on social media.
Caroleo declined to comment on the lawsuit.