In a distressing case that has emerged from Florida, a couple has filed a lawsuit against multiple timeshare and resort entities following an alleged chemical exposure incident. The complaint was lodged by Richard and Lisa Rocco in the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida, on December 18, 2024. They are suing Armstrong Timeshare Association, Inc., Sand Pebble Resort of Treasure Island Condominium Association, Inc., and Vacation Resorts International, LLC.
The Roccos' legal action stems from an incident on July 15, 2024, when Richard Rocco experienced severe pain after swimming in a pool at the Sand Pebble Resort located at 12300 Gulf Boulevard, Treasure Island. The plaintiffs claim that the pool's chemical levels were not compliant with safety standards as confirmed by resort management post-incident. This non-compliance led to Richard suffering from "burning and very painful symptoms," which included impairment and mental anguish. As per the complaint, this negligence has resulted in permanent injuries for Richard Rocco.
Richard Rocco's claims against each defendant revolve around allegations of negligence concerning the maintenance and safety of their facilities. Specifically, Armstrong Timeshare Association is accused of failing to inspect and maintain its systems adequately and not warning guests about potential hazards. Similar accusations are leveled against Sand Pebble Resort and Vacation Resorts International (VCI), highlighting their failure to ensure safe conditions for guests through proper inspections and adherence to relevant regulations.
The lawsuit underscores that all three defendants had a duty to operate their associations safely to prevent harm to invitees like Richard Rocco. Their alleged negligence encompasses a range of failures including inadequate training of staff, insufficient maintenance programs for detecting harmful chemicals, and violations of applicable federal, state, and local laws.
In addition to seeking damages exceeding $50,000 for Richard's injuries from each defendant separately under different counts of negligence, Lisa Rocco is pursuing compensation for loss of consortium due to her husband's injuries. The Roccos demand judgment for all damages allowed by law along with interest and have requested a jury trial.
Representing the plaintiffs is Stanley W. Plappert from The Florida Legal Advocacy Group, P.A., based in Ocala. The case is identified under Case Number: 24-005554-CI but does not specify any presiding judge as yet.