PALM COAST, Florida – The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a Palm Coast pool contractor on eight felony counts after detectives said he took payment for pool repairs and upgrades and left the work largely unfinished.
Detectives charged 45-year-old Dominic Solicito, owner of Advanced Pool and Spa Technologies, with six counts of grand theft ($750 to $5,000) and two counts of grand theft ($20,000 to $100,000). Investigators obtained the arrest warrant on November 6.
Solicito turned himself in and went to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility. He later got out on a $50,000 bond.
How the investigation unfolded
Detectives with the Sheriff’s Office General Assignment Unit opened the case on August 21. The complaints first reached the Attorney General’s Seniors Vs. Crime volunteer investigators.
Detectives reviewed reports dated from January 2022 through July 2024 and found 10 Flagler County cases involving Solicito and his company. Eight of those victims chose to pursue criminal charges.
In each of the eight cases, detectives determined that Solicito signed a contract and took payment upfront for pool repairs and upgrades, then did not finish the agreed-upon work. Those eight victims paid him about $117,545 in total.
Some victims later got partial reimbursements, generally in payments of $25 to $50. As of October 1, Solicito had repaid about $12,750 through mediation with Seniors Vs. Crime, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff’s warning to homeowners
Sheriff Rick Staly said his office will go after contractors who take money and do not deliver.
“Contractors who take advantage of unsuspecting customers, accept their hard-earned money, and fail to deliver on their promises will be held accountable,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “We will continue working to protect our residents from those who believe they can use their businesses as a cover to steal from others. If you commit fraud in Flagler County, expect to be held accountable and a trip to the Green Roof Inn.”
Staly also urged residents to check a contractor’s credentials before hiring.
“This is a reminder to also verify that the contractors you use are licensed and insured and are in good standing with the state and Better Business Bureau,” added Sheriff Staly. “Always get a lien release and never pay anyone 100% of the job until it’s done.”
More victims possible
The investigation into Solicito and Advanced Pool and Spa Technologies remains active. Detectives believe additional victims may exist whom they have not yet identified.
Anyone who thinks they may be a victim, or who has information about the case, can contact the Sheriff’s Office at 386-313-4911 or email TIPS@flaglersheriff.com. Anonymous tips can go to Crime Stoppers at 1-888-277-TIPS (8477). Tipsters may qualify for a reward of up to $5,000.
Solicito faces accusations only. The charges are not a finding of guilt.