Jon Taffer Sues Florida Man Again for Impersonation, Citing Abuse and Ongoing Deception

Jon Taffer, the well-known host of Bar Rescue, has filed a new lawsuit in Florida against a man named Vic Caroleo, whom he accuses of impersonating him in bars across the state. This is not the first legal action Taffer has taken against Caroleo — the impersonation allegedly began in 2017 and persisted despite a previous lawsuit filed earlier in 2024. The new legal complaint, filed by Taffer and his attorney Bradford Cohen, claims the impersonation has escalated to harmful and damaging levels.

Impersonator Accused of Sexual Misconduct, Deception Despite Legal Agreement to Cease Acts

According to court documents obtained by TMZ, Taffer alleges that Caroleo’s impersonation has gone far beyond mere imitation. The suit claims Caroleo has committed “sexually inappropriate and abusive acts against women” while falsely presenting himself as Taffer. One specific case from 2020 is highlighted, where a woman accused Taffer of sexual assault. However, after investing tens of thousands of dollars in legal and investigative efforts, it was revealed that Caroleo was the actual perpetrator.

Despite reaching an agreement in September 2024, which required Caroleo to cease impersonating Taffer, the new lawsuit alleges that the behavior has continued. One woman recently contacted Taffer’s team to report that Caroleo tried to convince her he was Taffer, even presenting fake credit cards with Taffer’s name to bolster the deception. The lawsuit notes that Caroleo has boasted online about his resemblance to Taffer, suggesting he uses their similar looks to manipulate and exploit women.

Taffer Seeks Legal Relief and $50K Damages to End Harmful Identity Impersonation

Taffer is now asking the Collier County court to intervene and stop Caroleo’s behavior once and for all. He argues that the impersonation has severely damaged both his personal and professional reputation. The lawsuit states that Caroleo’s actions have brought Taffer “ridicule and shame” and have violated his legal rights, including his right to control the use of his name and likeness.

In addition to seeking a permanent end to the impersonation, Taffer is requesting $50,000 in damages. He asserts that Caroleo’s ongoing actions have caused irreparable harm and must be legally addressed. Whether this second lawsuit will successfully halt Caroleo’s impersonation remains to be seen, but Taffer is clearly determined to protect his name, career, and personal integrity.