Retired Florida Fire Captain Arrested on Insurance Fraud Charges
A retired Davie fire captain was recently arrested on insurance fraud charges related to a claim he made in 2022, state authorities said. Miguel Ferrer, 49, is facing insurance fraud charges and criminal use of personal identification information changes, according to Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis.
According to the release, Ferrer filed a claim for water intrusion under his homeowner’s insurance policy with Citizens Property Insurance Corporation in March 2022 due to interior damage caused by a clogged air conditioning line. Ferrer was forced to vacate his home in June 2022 to begin repairs and stayed at a resort in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea. He is accused of submitting falsified invoices claiming to stay an additional 26 nights at the resort, the release said.
Investigators discovered that Ferrer was in Ocala at the Fire Academy serving as an instructor during the various dates he claimed to be staying at the resort. If convicted, the defendant could face up to 10 years in prison.
False and fraudulent insurance claims
Under Florida Statute § 817.234, the crime of insurance fraud involves an individual deceiving an insurance company for financial gain. Insurance fraud can occur in various forms including false insurance claims, exaggerating damages or injuries, or misrepresentation of personal information when purchasing a policy.
Penalties and consequences of an insurance fraud conviction
Under Florida law, insurance fraud is considered a felony. The severity of the felony depends on the amount of money stolen. Insurance fraud can be charged as either a first-, second-, or third-degree felony.
If the amount of money gained by the alleged fraud is less than $20,000, the crime is considered a third-degree felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
If the amount of money gained by the fraud is between $20,000 and $100,000, it is considered a second-degree felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
If the amount exceeds $100,000, it is considered a first-degree felony under Florida law and is punishable by a maximum sentence of 30 years behind bars and a fine of up to $10,000.
Professionals working in certain fields can also lose their professional license for five years and may not be reimbursed for PIP benefits for ten years after being found guilty of insurance fraud. Healthcare professionals, lawyers, and clinical medical directors can also be charged with a third-degree felony if they solicit business from those involved in a vehicle accident.
Talk to a Tampa, FL Insurance Fraud Defense Attorney Today
The Matassini Law Firm defends Tampa residents from criminal charges related to insurance fraud. Call our Tampa criminal defense lawyers today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin preparing your defense right away.
Source:
nbcmiami.com/news/local/retired-davie-fire-captain-arrested-on-insurance-fraud-charges/3334631/
