NEWBURYPORT — David Nardone pleaded not guilty yesterday in Newburyport District Court to charges related to scamming approximately 32 customers of his Amesbury Auto Sales used car dealership last spring.
Police are seeking 13 felony larceny convictions against Nardone, a one-time New England Patriots draft pick.
Yesterday Nardone pleaded not guilty to one count of larceny under $250 by a single scheme. He was released on $1,000 cash bail and will return to Newburyport District Court on Dec. 8 for a pretrial conference.
Police are also seeking additional convictions of larceny over $250 by a single scheme and other misdemeanor counts.
Each count of larceny over $250 by a single scheme carries the potential of five years in state prison and a fine of $25,000 if he's found guilty.
Police say they have received approximately 32 complaints, including customers' allegations that Nardone sold them vehicles with major defects and ignored promises to fix defects, that there were delays in receiving funds and that he took part in unscrupulous business practices and actions meant to threaten and intimidate customers.
Judge Peter Doyle yesterday told Nardone if he is to get into any legal trouble while on bail, he will be held without bail for up to 60 days.
The former used car salesman willingly surrendered his car dealership license to the town in June.
