In Ocala, Florida, a father and son duo were apprehended this week in connection with an alleged recreational vehicle (RV) fraud scheme, as reported by the Ocala Police Department.
The investigation began in August 2024 following a complaint from a victim who claimed to have been swindled out of both money and an RV. This initial report set off a wider inquiry.
According to a police statement, as detectives delved deeper, they uncovered more than two dozen additional victims, many of whom were elderly, with similar grievances. These victims reported issues such as unpaid RV consignments, unreturned deposits, missing vehicle titles, unresolved bank loans, and RVs being sold without the necessary documentation.
The investigation led authorities to Village RV on South Pine Avenue, operated by Anthony Piccione, 65, and his son, Drake Piccione, 31.
Officials revealed that the Picciones allegedly misappropriated customer funds, indulging in extravagant personal expenses including travel, luxury cars, and entertainment.
Consequently, both Anthony and Drake Piccione were arrested on charges of engaging in an organized scheme to defraud, involving amounts exceeding $50,000. The charges carry additional penalties due to the targeting of elderly victims.
“The case remains an active investigation,” the release concludes. “We encourage anyone with relevant information regarding this case to please contact the Ocala Police Department.”
