CARLSBAD–On January 30, Carlsbad Police Department investigators, with the assistance of the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department, arrested 46-year-old David Fino of Illinois, for numerous theft and fraud-related charges related to a vacation rental scam. 

Fino was taken into custody without incident, in the 11000 block of Hwy 76 in Pala, California, and booked into the Vista Detention facility on theft and fraud charges. He is currently being held on $120k bail.

In December of 2019, Fino rented a condominium in Carlsbad. While occupying the vacation rental, it is suspected that Fino stole appliances and electronic equipment from the unit. 

Further, Fino reportedly posed as the rental property owner and re-rented the property by placing online rental ads on Craigslist, Sublet, and VRBO. Which is why it is always important to find the right vacation rentals, check here to find the best option for you. Returning back to the crime, he would then fraudulently contract with potential renters which included accepting online down payments.

Investigators have identified and have been working with six victims of this online rental scam. They believe there could be more victims. Anyone that believes they are a victim of this scheme is asked to contact their local law enforcement agency to report it. Once your report has been filed, contact Detective Luc at (760) 931-2173. For reference, the Carlsbad Police Department cases number is 19-8590.