ABSECON, NJ – A joint operation between Absecon Police, Federal Aviation Administration, New Jersey State Police, and Galloway Township Police led to the arrest of a man using a drone to vandalize pools at various locations.
Patrick Spina 4th, owner of Comfort Solutions Heating and Cooling in Galloway Township, was arrested after his drone was traced back to his business.
The drone had been involved in multiple incidents, including dropping a dye into residential and commercial pools, causing property damage.
The first report came from a homeowner on Upland Avenue on August 13th, who noticed a drone hovering over their pool before releasing a substance that discolored the water. Other incidents were reported, including one at the Quality Inn in Galloway Township where the concrete pool base sustained damage.
Authorities located the drone in flight over the Quality Inn on September 1st and traced its path back to Spina’s business. He faces multiple counts of criminal mischief for his actions.
Investigations found that the substance dropped into the pools was Sea Dye, typically used by sea rescue services. The dye caused damage to the affected pools and its use in this manner is considered illicit.
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Spina, 45, has been released on a summons pending court proceedings. Law enforcement agencies are encouraging residents who may have experienced similar issues to contact their local police.