In a recent legal proceeding that underscores the financial vulnerabilities seniors face, Steven Adinolfi, owner of “Made in the Shade,” has pleaded guilty to felony fraud and deceit. According to a report by FOX5 Vegas, Adinolfi has agreed to pay $350,000 in restitution to the defrauded homeowners.
Following a string of customer complaints in late 2023 about projects paid for but not completed, the Nevada State Contractors Board after conducting a disciplinary hearing in September 2023, revoked Adinolfi's contractor's license. Arrested in June of 2025, the Nevada State Contractors Board says that nearly $350,000 was obtained by Adinolfi from the victims. The Nevada State Contractors Board, working closely with the Attorney General's office, resolved to hold Adinolfi criminally accountable soon after, as reported by KTNV.
"When egregious and predatory contractors like Steven Adinolfi are convicted of felony charges and ordered to pay full restitution, it demonstrates the commitment by the Nevada Attorney General to bring justice to the victims who were harmed," David Behar, Nevada State Contractors Board Executive Officer, stated in an interview obtained by FOX5 Vegas. The protection of consumers, he notes, is the "paramount objective," a stance echoed by the unfortunate impact laid out by the Nevada State Contractors Board on the community.
The Nevada State Contractors Board also reported that the Residential Recovery Fund has awarded over $408,000 in claims filed by Adinolfi’s victims. Under the plea agreement terms, Adinolfi could face a minimum of one year and up to 20 years in prison if he fails to meet the conditions, with the potential for additional fines up to $10,000, as KTNV states. Furthermore, Adinolfi has agreed to a financial arrangement that includes if he pays $55,410 before sentencing, the State will not oppose probation and will allow a plea withdrawal to reduce the charge to a gross misdemeanor—with no further sentencing requirements—should a further $50,000 be paid.
Consumers considering contracting services are urged by Nevada State Contractors Board to stay vigilant for signs of deceitful practices: aggressive sales tactics, large down payments, cash-only payments, or no written terms. The Nevada State Contractors Board cautions especially against contractors who do not provide a license number for verification on their website. This advice comes as a means to shield the community from similar predatory actions and to bolster trust in legitimate contracting services.
