HAUPPAUGE, N.Y. — A Long Island flooring contractor has admitted to stealing more than $90,000 from customers after accepting payments for hardwood flooring projects that were never completed, according to the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office.
Leones Martins-Rodrigues, 40, of East Islip, owner of Smart Flooring, pleaded guilty to attempted second-degree grand larceny in Suffolk County Supreme Court.
Prosecutors said Martins-Rodrigues accepted payments from three home builders between May 2022 and February 2024 for flooring projects at homes in Southampton and East Hampton but never purchased or installed the promised hardwood flooring.
Prosecutors say funds were used to pay personal debts
According to the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, Martins-Rodrigues admitted during his guilty plea that he received more than $90,000 for the projects before diverting the money for his own personal expenses.
“This defendant presented himself as a reputable contractor and stole money meant for flooring inside Suffolk County homes,” Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney said.
“Instead, he used the funds to pay down his own debts. My office will ensure that those who deceive residents face consequences for their criminal actions,” Tierney added.
Authorities said the payments were intended exclusively for purchasing and installing hardwood flooring but investigators determined the money was withdrawn from the defendant’s accounts without any flooring being purchased.
Key Points
- East Islip contractor Leones Martins-Rodrigues pleaded guilty to attempted second-degree grand larceny.
- Prosecutors say he stole more than $90,000 from three home builders by accepting payment for flooring work that was never completed.
- Authorities allege he used the money to pay personal debts instead of purchasing flooring materials.
Sentencing scheduled next year
Martins-Rodrigues was arrested on April 8 and entered his guilty plea before New York Supreme Court Justice Timothy P. Mazzei.
He is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 12, 2027.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Milito of the Financial Crimes Bureau following an investigation by Detective Thomas Henry of the Suffolk County Police Department, who is assigned to the District Attorney’s Financial Crimes Bureau.
Home improvement fraud continues to be one of the most common financial crimes reported by homeowners. Prosecutors say the case serves as a reminder for consumers to research contractors carefully and report suspected fraud to law enforcement.
FAQ
Who pleaded guilty?
Leones Martins-Rodrigues, 40, owner of Smart Flooring in East Islip.
How much money was involved?
More than $90,000.
What was the money supposed to pay for?
The purchase and installation of hardwood flooring in homes located in Southampton and East Hampton.
What charge did he plead guilty to?
Attempted Grand Larceny in the Second Degree.
When will he be sentenced?
Aug. 12, 2027.
Source: Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office
