Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Russell Salvatore, a high profile local restauranteur, hotelier and philanthropist, is accused in a lawsuit, of sexual assault, harassment, discrimination and wrongful termination.
In a suit filed Wednesday, a former employee alleges that the restaurateur
sexually assaulted her on several occasions throughout her 9 year employment.
She described the work environment as "abusive and sexually hostile" and
claims she was wrongfully terminated in December 2023.
The lawsuit was brought against Salvatore, Russell’s Steaks, Chops & More,
and Salvatore's business partner Mark Jerge.
In a statement, Salvatore said "I was shocked, saddened, and disappointed to learn that an employee who had been with me for over 9 years has decided to file a lawsuit against me. I believe the lawsuit is in retaliation for a policy change that was implemented involving her and associate bartenders that she didn’t agree with."
Salvatore says he will not buckle to threats.