Former Bowlero exec says company threatened to report him to FBI

From CNBC: 2024-04-09 15:02:18

A former executive at Bowlero seeks permission to countersue the company for extortion and retaliation. Recent legal filings reveal a recorded call where a Bowlero executive allegedly threatened the former CIO to admit to spilling company secrets or face FBI involvement. The company, a major player in the bowling industry, has denied these claims. Bowlero had a successful run after going public in 2021 and anticipates continued sales growth in fiscal 2024.

Thomas Tanase, the former Bowlero executive, claims he was fired due to age discrimination. After filing an EEOC complaint in August, Bowlero took legal action against him, alleging he hacked into the CEO’s email. Tanase, however, disputes these allegations and is seeking redress through countersuits, aiming for millions in damages. Both parties have engaged in legal battles since the onset of the case, with Bowlero seeking sanctions against Tanase amid questions about his credibility.

The legal dispute between Bowlero and Tanase escalated due to matters of confidentiality, company secrets, and extortion claims. Tanase’s recording of a call with a Bowlero executive, where threats to involve the FBI were made, suggests a complex legal battle involving high stakes. Both parties are now entangled in a legal battle with substantial financial implications. It remains to be seen how the court will adjudicate these intricate legal issues amid conflicting claims and counterclaims.



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