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Patrick Spina 4th, of Absecon, owner of Comfort Solutions Heating and Cooling, is facing multiple counts of criminal mischief, according to Absecon police.
On Aug. 13, Absecon Police received a call from a concerned homeowner on Upland Avenue, who reported suspicious activity involving a drone hovering over their pool. "To the homeowner's dismay, a substance was dropped from the drone, turning the pool water an alarming shade of green," police said.
Following this incident, similar reports emerged from various other locations, including the Quality Inn in Galloway Township, where the concrete pool base suffered damage due to the dye, police said.
Working diligently alongside the FAA, New Jersey State Police, and Galloway Township Police, Absecon Police conducted a thorough investigation, leading them to detect the drone in flight over the Quality Inn on Friday, Sept. 1. Authorities tracked the drone's path back to Comfort Solutions Heating and Cooling, a business located at 345 E. White Horse Pike in Galloway Township, police said.
Further investigation revealed that the substance dropped from the drone into the pools was Sea Dye, a material commonly utilized by sea rescue services. The use of such a material in this context was not only illicit but also caused damage to the affected pools, police said.
The Absecon Police Department extends its gratitude to the FAA, New Jersey State Police, Galloway Township Police, Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office, and all other agencies involved for their invaluable assistance in bringing this case to a swift resolution.
Similar incidents should be reported to the following:
- For Absecon contact Det. Neal Galletta #857 at (609) 641-0667 ext. 216.
- For Galloway contact DSFC. Jason Kiamos #77 at (609) 652-3705 ext. 331.
- Otherwise, contact your local police department for assistance.
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