West Haven mayor’s son charged with embezzlement

West Haven (AP) — The son of a Connecticut mayor has been charged with embezzling more than $80,000 from two restaurants he manages.

Stephen Rossi, son of West Haven Mayor Nancy Rossi, faces charges of larceny, computer crime and criminal impersonation. The New Haven Register reports Rossi was released after posting $50,000 bond.

Rossi managed restaurants in Trumbull and Stratford, and police say the restaurant's owner first alleged Rossi embezzled.

Investigators say an audit determined Rossi took cash from sales and inflated inventory, pocketing the difference. Authorities say they have video of Rossi pocketing cash from the restaurant in Trumbull.

Mayor Nancy Rossi says she understands the situation as an employee-employer dispute, saying, “I believe in the Constitution, he's innocent until proven guilty.”