Oakes Farms Files Lawsuit Against Former Executive, Alleging Multi-Million-Dollar Theft

NAPLES — Oakes Farms, one of Southwest Florida’s best-known agricultural and food distribution companies, has filed a civil lawsuit accusing a former executive of siphoning off millions of dollars from the business to bankroll an extravagant lifestyle.

The suit, filed October 31 in Collier Circuit Court, names Steven Veneziano Jr. as the defendant. According to court documents, Oakes Farms alleges Veneziano exploited his senior position within the company to “steal millions of dollars in funds, equipment and assets.”

While specific figures were not immediately disclosed, the filing claims Veneziano diverted company money through unauthorized transactions, personal purchases, and misuse of company property. Oakes Farms contends the pattern of activity continued for years before being uncovered through an internal audit earlier this fall.

The complaint paints a picture of “lavish and self-serving conduct” — including the alleged acquisition of luxury vehicles, high-end real estate, and personal expenses charged to company accounts.

A representative for Oakes Farms confirmed the lawsuit Monday, saying the company “takes financial integrity very seriously” and that it is “committed to recovering every dollar owed.”

As of Monday afternoon, Veneziano had not filed a formal response to the allegations, and court records do not yet list an attorney on his behalf. Attempts to reach him for comment were unsuccessful.

Oakes Farms, founded in Naples and known for its locally grown produce, markets, and food distribution network, has long been a fixture in Collier County’s agribusiness sector. The company’s lawsuit signals a sharp break with one of its former leaders — and a potentially lengthy legal battle ahead.

A case management hearing is expected to be scheduled in the coming weeks.