Florida Attorney General Takes Action Against Spa Owners

News Summary

The Florida Attorney General has barred Dylan Placker, owner of Revive Spas and More, from operating in the state due to 33 complaints about defective hot tubs. Customers reported receiving hot tubs that were inoperable, leaking, or not as described. A lawsuit has resulted in a $10,850 penalty after the couple faced allegations of warranty violations. They are now permanently prohibited from engaging in spa-related businesses in Florida. This incident highlights the importance of consumer rights and the need for due diligence when making purchases.

Florida Attorney General Cracks Down on Revive Spas Owners for Defective Hot Tubs

In a stunning turn of events right here in Florida, Dylan Placker, owner of Revive Spas and More, has found himself in hot water—quite literally. The Florida Attorney General’s office has made the decision to bar him from operating any business in the state due to a slew of consumer complaints. This major ruling was the result of an investigation that uncovered at least 33 complaints against Revive Spas and More.

What Went Wrong?

So, what exactly led to this hard-hitting decision? Many consumers who purchased hot tubs from Revive Spas reported serious issues. These weren’t just minor inconveniences; people described receiving hot tubs that were inoperable, malfunctioning, or even leaking. Consumers were promised hot tubs that were supposedly “like new,” only to find them in a state of disrepair—some even rotting or completely unusable.

Adding to the mess, customers alleged that the Plackers often failed to honor warranties linked to the hot tubs. This left many feeling helpless and frustrated, especially when it became increasingly difficult to reach the couple for assistance after making their purchase. Numerous complaints mentioned ignored phone calls and messages—a situation that’s understandably upsetting for anyone who just shelled out their hard-earned cash.

The Legal Fallout

With consumers feeling deceived and frustrated, a lawsuit was filed in September 2023 against Dylan and his wife Chelsie Placker, citing violations under the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act. As a result, the couple now faces hefty consequences, including having to fork over $471,095 in civil penalties, litigation costs, and consumer relief to the state. However, the Plackers have admitted their inability to pay the full amount and instead will pay a reduced sum of $10,850, which will be distributed to affected consumers.

As part of the agreement, the Plackers are permanently prohibited from working in any business related to hot tubs or spas in Florida. Moreover, they cannot interfere with consumers who wish to share their honest reviews about their experiences, which is a significant win for consumer rights.

A Growing Movement

The fallout has led to the formation of a Facebook group titled “Victims of Hot Tub Scam Artists Dylan and Chelsie Placker AKA Revived Spa,” which has garnered 72 members as of now. This platform allows consumers to share their experiences and find support from others who have faced similar frustrations.

History of Issues

Interestingly, this isn’t the Plackers’ first brush with trouble. Before their operations in Florida, they faced similar allegations in Oklahoma, which resulted in a ten-year ban on selling hot tubs there. They were previously ordered to pay $33,260 in restitution to consumers in Oklahoma, indicating a consistent pattern of accusations that led to consumer losses exceeding $120,000.

The allegations against them included various forms of consumer fraud, such as false advertising and failing to provide the promised services. After delivery, many buyers reported significant issues, from leakages to malfunctioning components—definitely not the dream hot tub experience anyone would want!

End of the Line?

As it stands, the Plackers have ceased operations in Florida, and their business phone number has been disconnected. Whether they will ever be able to redeem themselves in the eyes of consumers remains to be seen. For now, it seems like this hot tub saga serves as a cautionary tale for prospective buyers. Always read the reviews and do your research before making a big purchase!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Click Orlando: State Shuts Down Central Florida Hot Tub Company
• Wikipedia: Consumer Fraud
• News Journal Online: Florida Files Suit Against Hot Tub Company
• Google Search: Florida Attorney General Hot Tub Scam
• WFLA: Hot Tub Company Permanently Shut Down
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Consumer Protection
• Click Orlando: Volusia Company Sold Defective Hot Tubs
• Google News: Hot Tub Scam Florida