Florida Department of Financial Services - Press Releases

Statement from Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater Regarding the Unanimous Passage of State Contracting Reforms Out of House and Senate Committees

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 21:39:51 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today released the following statement regarding the unanimous passage out of committee of Senate Bill 1626 sponsored by Sen. Gaetz (R-Niceville) and House Bill 1409 sponsored by Rep. Albritton (R-Wauchula) regarding state contracting reforms.

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Arrest of Miramar Man for Staged Auto Accidents Resulting in $200,000 in Fake Insurance Claims

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 22:16:33 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today the arrest of Yasser Vega-Martinez, 34, of Miramar for planning and orchestrating three staged auto accidents over a seven-month period. The staged crashes resulted in over $200,000 in fraudulent insurance claims.

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Arrest of ‘Straw Owner,’ Clinic Operator for Violating Clinic Law, Filing Fraudulent PIP Claims

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 21:04:38 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today that charges have been filed against an Orlando chiropractor and two clinic operators for allegedly conspiring to create a “straw” ownership arrangement to thwart Florida’s clinic licensing laws.

Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater Regarding Settlement with Prudential Insurance Company to Return Unclaimed Dollars to Floridians

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 21:27:45 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today released the following statement regarding Florida’s settlement with Prudential Insurance Company of America and its affiliates, which will allow the Department of Financial Services to recover unclaimed insurance benefits owed to Floridians.

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Arrest of Miami Clinic Owner for Filing Fraudulent PIP Claims

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:34:01 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today the arrest of a Miami clinic owner for submitting fraudulent Personal Injury Protection (PIP) claims from his unlicensed clinic.

Statement from Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater Regarding the Religious Freedom Restoration Act of 2012 proposed by U.S. Senator Marco Rubio

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 22:10:54 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today released the following statement in support of U.S. Senator Marco Rubio’s proposed bill entitled the Religious Freedom Restoration Act of 2012 which would protect church-affiliated organizations from being mandated to provide services that violate their religious beliefs.

CFO Jeff Atwater and Attorney General Pam Bondi Announce Meeting of the Medicaid and Public Assistance Fraud Strike Force

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:31:29 GMT

WHO: Medicaid and Public Assistance Fraud Strike Force
WHAT: Meeting of the Medicaid and Public Assistance Fraud Strike Force
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 2, 2012, 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
WHERE: Cabinet Meeting Room LL-03, The Capitol, Tallahassee, FL

Statement from Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater on the Hiring of SBA Inspector General

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 17:32:09 GMT

Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today released the following statement regarding the appointment of Kenneth A. Chambers as the inspector general at the State Board of Administration (SBA).

Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater Kicks-Off Everglades Summit

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 21:07:03 GMT

Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater spoke to nearly 300 fellow Floridians to kick-off the Everglades Water Supply Summit in Tallahassee. The two-day summit, hosted by the Everglades Foundation, is the first of its kind in Tallahassee to link policymakers with experts in Everglades restoration.

CFO Jeff Atwater Sponsors Resolution Recognizing National Thrift Week

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 21:02:00 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater has sponsored a resolution recognizing Jan. 17 - 23, 2012, as “Florida Thrift Week,” encouraging all Floridians to learn and implement the values of thrift and saving as steps toward long-term financial success.

Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jeff Atwater Mourns the Loss of Pompano Beach Firefighter

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 19:52:41 GMT

Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jeff Atwater released the following statement regarding Pompano Beach Fire-Rescue Firefighter William Elliott who died in the line of duty on Friday.

CFO and State Fire Marshal Jeff Atwater Announces the Arrest of Arsonist in Pensacola Clinic Fire

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 17:36:11 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jeff Atwater today announced the arrest of Bobby Joe Rogers of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, after a joint investigation involving the Division of State Fire Marshal’s Bureau of Fire and Arson Investigations (BFAI) and other members of the Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF). The investigation determined that Rogers set fire to a clinic, causing approximately $300,000 in damage.

CFO Atwater Offers Free Webinars to Help Small Businesses Write a Winning Business Plan

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 21:02:58 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater’s Division of Consumer Services will offer free webinars to support Florida’s small businesses. The webinars, entitled “How to Write a Winning Business Plan,” will be offered Dec. 12-15, through CFO Atwater’s new Your Money Matter$ Web site.

Statement from Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater Regarding Findings from External Review of SBA Compliance Protocols

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 13:31:12 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater yesterday released the following statement regarding the findings from the external review of the State Board of Administration’s (SBA) compliance protocols. In May, CFO Atwater called for a review of all compliance protocols at the SBA to be conducted by an external review team. Crowe Horwath, LLP, performed the review and presented the findings yesterday at the SBA Quarterly Meeting.

CFO Jeff Atwater Appoints Law Enforcement Veteran to Lead the Division of Insurance Fraud

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 19:07:39 GMT

Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today announced the appointment of law enforcement veteran and crime fighter Daniel S. Anderson as the new Director of the Division of Insurance Fraud (DIF). Anderson, a 25-year veteran of the Drug Enforcement Administration with extensive experience in global criminal investigations and law enforcement coalition building, will be on the job next month.

CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Conviction of North Carolina Man in $2.7 Million Workers’ Compensation Insurance Scam

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 14:06:36 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today the conviction of a North Carolina man in a $2.7 million workers’ compensation insurance scam. Carl Delmas Fuller, 53, of Wake Forest, N.C., pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud, received four years in prison, and was ordered to pay restitution of more than $3.1 million for scamming a Highlands County employment services company with a fake workers’ compensation insurance policy.

CFO Atwater Announces Legislative Agenda to Increase Transparency, Protect Consumers, Fight Fraud and Reduce Regulatory Burdens

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 15:21:11 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today announced that his legislative agenda for the 2012 Legislative Session will focus on four core themes: transparency in contracts and government spending; protecting consumers; fighting fraud that is increasing the cost of living for Florida’s families and reducing regulatory burdens on Florida’s businesses.

Statement from Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater Regarding Passing the Repeal of the Three Percent Withholding Requirement

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 20:26:02 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today released the following statement regarding the U.S. House of Representatives passing of HR 674 to repeal the three percent withholding requirement. The repeal bill has now passed both chambers of Congress and is on its way to the president’s desk to be signed into law.

CFO Jeff Atwater Helps Lead Fight to Combat Fraud Against Military Personnel

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 22:03:30 GMT

Fighting back for those who fight for us, Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today participated in a roundtable with national and state leaders on military and veterans issues, including Holly Petraeus, Director of the Office of Servicemember Affairs, to find ways to combat fraud targeted against military personnel.

Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater’s Department of Financial Services Named Florida’s Agency of the Year

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 20:27:50 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater’s Department of Financial Services (DFS) will be recognized by the Department of Management Services’ (DMS) Office of Supplier Diversity (OSD) as the State of Florida’s Agency of the Year for supporting Florida’s minority business community during the past fiscal year.

Advisory: Meeting of the Florida Disability Presumption Task Force

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 16:33:21 GMT

WHO: Florida Disability Presumption Task Force
WHAT: Meeting of the Florida Disability Presumption Task Force
WHEN: Monday, Nov. 28, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
WHERE: Florida League of Cities Building, 125 East Colonial Drive, Green Room, 3rd Floor, Orlando, FL 32801 and
Florida League of Cities Building, 301 South Bronough Street, Sittig Hall, 1st Floor, Tallahassee, FL 32301

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Arrest of Senior Scammer in Annuity Fraud Scheme

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 20:28:22 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today the arrest of Victor Edwin Ruser, Sr., 59, of Kissimmee, for allegedly scamming nine seniors between the ages of 80 and 94 out of over $650,000 in an annuity fraud scheme. Ruser was charged with multiple felony counts including exploitation of the elderly, grand theft and perpetrating a scheme to defraud.

Gov. Rick Scott and CFO Jeff Atwater Call for PIP Auto Insurance Reform

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 18:48:27 GMT

Today, Governor Rick Scott, Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater and legislative leaders identified four issues that must be addressed in order to rein in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) auto insurance fraud and reduce insurance rates for Florida consumers.

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Seven Insurance Fraud Arrests in Orlando and Miami

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 16:00:13 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today the arrests of five insurance fraud suspects for their involvement in a staged accident scheme in Orlando. Lufaite Olizia, 40, and Tracey McFarlane, 40, were charged with insurance fraud, patient brokering and intentionally staging a motor vehicle crash. Pierre Antoine Joseph, 41, Madeline Emile, 28, and Yolando Denise Roberts, 39, were also arrested for participating in the staged accident as passengers and subsequently filing fraudulent medical claims.

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Arrests of Four Miami Fraudsters in Staged Accident Scheme

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 16:34:18 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater announced today the arrests of four suspects in Miami for insurance fraud and faking an auto accident. Roberto Martinez, 27, Yesenia Toscano, 21, both of Hialeah Gardens, and Rafael Javier Arroyo, 19, of Hialeah were charged with multiple counts including insurance fraud, grand theft and staging an auto accident. Concepcion Olmos Valls, 53, of Miami was charged with staging an auto accident.

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Arrests of Five Suspects in Miami Staged Accident Scheme

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 16:28:37 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater announced today the arrests of five individuals involved in a staged accident scheme in Miami. Mario J. Chavez, 53, Robin Nelson Campanioni, Jr., 23, Jorge J. Mota, 27, Naima Basnueva Lastre, 24, all of Miami, and Eduardo Figueredo, 44, of Miami Springs were charged with insurance fraud, grand theft and staging an auto accident.

Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater’s letter to legislative leaders regarding efforts to foster greater accountability and transparency in government spending

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 19:24:58 GMT

Please see the attached letter from Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater to legislative leaders regarding the status of his transparency initiatives and the implementation of legislation passed during the 2011 Legislative Session to increase transparency and accountability in government spending.

CFO Jeff Atwater Offers Free Workshop for Women’s Small Business Month

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 13:08:25 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater’s Department of Financial Services in partnership with state Senator Gwen Margolis (D-Miami) will hold a free Women’s Small Business Workshop in Ft. Lauderdale on Friday, Oct. 14 as part of Women’s Small Business Month.

CFO Atwater’s Department Recovers More Than $17 Million for Florida Consumers

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 13:20:39 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today that the Department of Financial Services has taken part in the recovery of more than $17 million so far in 2011. Recoveries include claim payments, premium refunds and restitution for Florida consumers.

CFO and State Fire Marshal Jeff Atwater Recognizes Fire Prevention Week

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 17:39:08 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jeff Atwater sponsored a resolution this week recognizing Oct. 9 through Oct. 15 as Fire Prevention Week. Out of nearly 60,400 fires reported in Florida last year, more than 59,000 were fires that could have been prevented. Just last year, 40 Floridians died in accidental fires.

Florida CFO Atwater, Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Freeman and Visa Inc. Collaborate to Launch Statewide Rollout of Financial Football

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 15:45:56 GMT

Tackling the problem of financial illiteracy among Florida teenagers head-on, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jeff Atwater, Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Quarterback Josh Freeman and Visa Inc. today announced the statewide rollout of an effort to improve the money management skills of high school and middle school students. This educational video game and classroom curriculum called Financial Football is free of charge and was developed by Visa Inc.

CFO Jeff Atwater Offers Free Workshop for Women’s Small Business Month

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 14:23:09 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Arrest of Jacksonville Man for Grand Theft

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 16:53:24 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater announced today the arrest of a Jacksonville business man for selling a surety bond without a license and pocketing the premiums. Larry James Wright, 58, director of The Underwriters Group, Inc., allegedly sold a “bid bond” to a Massachusetts construction company without a valid license and kept the premiums.

Fallen Firefighters To Be Honored at the Annual Florida Fallen Firefighter Memorial Service in Ocala

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 15:27:57 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jeff Atwater and the Joint Council of Fire and Emergency Service Organizations will host the annual Florida Fallen Firefighter Memorial Service on Friday, Oct. 7, at the Florida State Fire College in Ocala. Seven Florida firefighters who have given their lives in the line of duty will be honored during this year’s service.

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater, Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Josh Freeman and Visa Inc. Collaborate to Launch Statewide Rollout of the Reinvented Financial Football

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 14:38:27 GMT

On Tuesday, October 11, 2011, at 10 a.m., Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jeff Atwater Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Quarterback Josh Freeman and Visa Inc. will be at Northeast High School in St. Petersburg for the Florida statewide launch of a reinvented educational video game and classroom curriculum called Financial Football, in conjunction with CFO Atwater’s new Your Money Matter$ financial education initiative.

Florida CFO Atwater Announces Arrests of Charlotte County Insurance Professionals for Selling Bogus Insurance

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 16:49:46 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today the arrests of a Charlotte County insurance agency owner and customer representative for selling unauthorized insurance products. Jack C. Alexander, Sr., 60, and Kristin R. Decker-Hopkins, 26, of Insurance Depot of Charlotte County were charged with representing an unauthorized insurer after selling more than 20 individuals unauthorized boat insurance policies.

Statement from Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater Regarding the Passing of Former Florida Governor Claude Kirk, Jr.

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 21:23:31 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today released the following statement regarding the passing of former Florida Governor Claude Kirk, Jr.

CFO Atwater Announces Unclaimed Property Auction Raises More Than $1 Million

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 13:17:23 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today announced the 2011 Unclaimed Property Auction held on Saturday in Ponte Vedra Beach was the third highest-grossing auction in the 50-year history of Florida’s unclaimed property program, drawing about 350 attendees, including 205 bidders, and raising $1.09 million for Florida’s public schools.

Florida State Fire Marshal Jeff Atwater Announces 6th Annual Volunteer Firefighter Training Weekend

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 14:08:46 GMT

More than 250 volunteer firefighters from throughout Florida will participate in five days of concentrated training this weekend provided at no cost to the firefighters. The 6th annual event will be held September 14-18, 2011, at the Northwest Florida State College in Niceville.

CFO Atwater Announces State Unclaimed Property Auction

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 19:40:42 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today announced that Florida will hold the annual unclaimed property auction on Saturday, Sept. 17, in Ponte Vedra Beach at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa. The auction, which is open to the public, will feature more than 37,000 individual items, including jewelry, watches and rare coins, with a minimum reserve value in excess of $327,000.

CFO Jeff Atwater and Attorney General Pam Bondi Announce Meeting of the Medicaid and Public Assistance Fraud Strike Force in Miami

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 19:36:47 GMT

WHO: Medicaid and Public Assistance Fraud Strike Force
WHAT: Meeting of the Medicaid and Public Assistance Fraud Strike Force
WHEN: Tuesday, Sept. 14, 10 a.m.
WHERE: Office of the State Attorney, 1350 N.W. 12th Ave., Miami FL 33136-2111

Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater Appoints Carlos Lacasa as New Chairman of Citizens Board of Governors

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 17:17:48 GMT

TALLAHASSEE—Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today the appointment of Carlos Lacasa as the Chairman of the Board of Governors for Citizens Property Insurance Corporation. Lacasa, from Miami, is a former state representative and has more than 20 years of experience as an attorney with expertise in the insurance industry.

Meeting of the Money Services Business Workers’ Comp Fraud Work Group

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 17:23:15 GMT

WHO: Money Services Business Workers’ Comp Fraud Work Group
WHAT: Meeting of the Money Services Business Workers’ Comp Fraud Work Group
WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 8, 2 to 5 p.m.
WHERE: Room B-33, Larson Building, 200 East Gaines St., Tallahassee, Fla. 32399

CFO Atwater’s Fraud Team Busts Accident Clinic Operator For Filing Claims on Behalf of a Dead Doctor

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 20:06:13 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today announced the Division of Insurance Fraud on Wednesday arrested Hialeah accident clinic operator Daysi Puigros on more than 30 felony counts stemming from allegations that she filed more than $200,000 in fraudulent Personal Injury Protection (PIP) claims using the name of a deceased doctor.

Former DCF Employee Arrested in Welfare Scam

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 16:13:01 GMT

Release from the office of Katherine Fernandez Rundle, State Attorney, Eleventh Judicial Circuit, In and For Miami-Dade County

Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle announces that as a result of a 2 year joint investigation undertaken by the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office and Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater’s Division of Public Assistance Fraud, former Department of Children and Families (DCF) employee Meera Khan has been arrested and charged with a lengthy list of crimes.

CFO Atwater Announces Arrest of Tampa Man in an Accident Clinic Money Structuring Scheme

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 16:10:58 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today the arrest of Hillsborough County resident, Juan C. Borras, 55, an employee of American Best Clinic, LLC, on charges of intentionally structuring large cash withdrawals to avoid reporting or registration required by Florida law. This tactic has been linked as a common practice for automobile accident clinics suspected of Personal Injury Protection (PIP) fraud.

CFO Jeff Atwater Announces First Meeting of the Money Service Business Workers’ Comp Fraud Work Group

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 14:17:12 GMT

WHO: Money Service Business Workers’ Comp Fraud Work Group
WHAT: First meeting of the Money Service Business Workers’ Comp Fraud Work Group
WHEN: Thursday, Aug. 25, 2 to 5 p.m.
WHERE: Room 233, Fletcher Building, Tallahassee, Fla. 32399

CFO Jeff Atwater Names Citizens Board Appointees

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 18:13:37 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today announced the appointments of Nancy Baily and Rob Wallace to the Board of Governors for Citizens Property Insurance Corporation.

CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Arrest of Central Florida Contractor in Sinkhole Repair Billing Scam

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 17:22:50 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today announced the arrest of an Oviedo business owner for overbilling State Farm Insurance Company for fraudulent sinkhole claim repairs. Michael Hodge, owner of A&M Contracting Company, is charged with multiple counts of racketeering and insurance fraud involving billings of materials he never used to repair properties in Orange, Seminole and Volusia counties.

CFO Jeff Atwater Calls for Review of Check Cashing Services Aiding in Workers’ Comp Fraud

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 12:53:55 GMT

At a Cabinet meeting today, Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced the creation of a working group to review the practices of certain bad actors in the check cashing services industry aiding in workers’ compensation premium fraud, which is putting pressure on rates and crippling the business community. The working group will include representatives from the CFO’s Division of Insurance Fraud as well as the Office of Financial Regulation, the Attorney General’s Office, and the construction and money services industries.

CFO Jeff Atwater Appoints Watchdog to Serve as Florida’s Insurance Consumer Advocate

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 18:04:07 GMT

Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today announced the appointment of attorney and insurance watchdog Robin Westcott to serve as Florida’s Insurance Consumer Advocate. CFO Atwater signaled that Westcott’s vast insurance knowledge as well as her career-long experience safeguarding Florida’s consumers will be a tremendous asset to the insurance-buying public.

CFO Atwater’s Department Recovers Nearly $12 Million in First Half of 2011 for Florida Consumers

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 17:28:20 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today that the Department of Financial Services’ Division of Consumer Services and Division of Agent and Agency Services have helped recover nearly $12 million in claim payments, premium refunds, restitution and recoveries this year for Florida consumers.

Florida Treasury Investment Pool Receives Rating Upgrade from Standard & Poor’s

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 14:56:17 GMT

The Florida Treasury Investment Pool received a rating upgrade from the globally recognized Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services, continuing its record of strong ratings for both credit quality and volatility. Standard and Poor’s upgraded the Florida Treasury Investment Pool’s credit quality rating from an ‘Af’ to an ‘A+f’ and affirmed the pool’s ‘S2’ volatility rating. The ratings were released yesterday.

CFO Atwater’s Division of Insurance Fraud Makes Two Arrests for Staged Accidents in Tampa

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 17:31:25 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today announced the arrest of two people who engaged in insurance fraud by staging an accident, claiming injury and billing an insurance company for procedures they did not receive. Suspects Floribel Figueroa Quiles and Lazaro Hernandez Cabrales were arrested following an investigation of complaints filed with the Division of Insurance Fraud by Assurance America.

CFO Atwater Announces Conviction of Tampa-Area Senior Scammer Following Department Sting Operation

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 19:49:07 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today the conviction of Randolph Kahl-Winter, a previously convicted senior scammer, who will finally have to serve time behind bars. The conviction stems from a Department of Financial Services Division of Insurance Fraud sting operation in December 2009. A vigilant Tampa-area senior tipped off fraud investigators and participated in the sting.

CFO Jeff Atwater’s Division of Consumer Services Expands Spanish-Speaking Assistance to Unclaimed Property Helpline

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 17:21:57 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today that he is expanding the availability of Spanish-speaking staff to the Department of Financial Services’ Unclaimed Property Helpline.

CFO and State Fire Marshal Atwater Reminds Floridians to Celebrate Safely this Fourth of July

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 20:31:00 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jeff Atwater today urged Floridians to celebrate safely during the upcoming holiday weekend, especially in light of ongoing drought conditions and the loss of two firefighters who were fighting a wildfire in Hamilton County last week, Josh Burch and Brett Fulton.

CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Three Arrests in Tampa Premium Fraud Scam

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 16:47:14 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today announced three arrests in a Tampa insurance fraud case involving the theft of thousands of dollars in auto insurance premiums. Suspects Bella Jenkins, Torrance Blake and David Ball, employees of Insurance Plus located in Temple Terrace, surrendered to authorities and were charged with insurance fraud and selling insurance without a license.

CFO Atwater Announces Conviction of Jacksonville Man in Elaborate Workers’ Comp Fraud Scheme, Illegal Check Cashing Operation

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 16:33:27 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today the conviction of a Jacksonville man in an elaborate workers’ compensation fraud scheme. David Rodriguez Socarras appeared before the Fourth Judicial Circuit Court Monday and pled guilty to five charges, including application fraud and workers’ compensation fraud, for running a “shell company” to pay undocumented workers and avoiding workers’
compensation premiums. Socarras was sentenced to four years in prison and ordered to pay more than $400,000 in restitution.

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater Statement Regarding the Deaths of Two Firefighters in Florida Wildfires

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 14:50:00 GMT

Two Division of Forestry firefighters, Josh Burch and Brett Fulton, lost their lives and two others were injured yesterday while fighting the Blue Ribbon Fire in Hamilton County, one of 1,500 wildfires continuing to burn as a result of a drought that began May 1, 2011.

CFO Atwater Calls for Your Help in Ongoing Search for ‘Most Wanted’ Insurance Fraud Fugitives

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 14:38:32 GMT

Continuing his effort to crack down on insurance fraud, Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater is calling for all Floridians to be on the lookout for Florida’s “Most Wanted” insurance fraud suspects. CFO Atwater is asking Floridians to visit his website, www.myfloridacfo.com/pressoffice/mostwanted, to learn more about suspects sought by the CFO’s Division of Insurance Fraud or State Fire Marshal on charges ranging from fraud to arson.

CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Arrest of North Carolina Man in $2.7 Million Workers’ Compensation Insurance Scam

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 17:53:20 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today the arrest of a North Carolina man in a $2.7 million workers’ compensation insurance scam. Carl Delmas Fuller, of Wake Forest, N.C., was charged Friday with mail and wire fraud for scamming a Highlands County employment services company with a fake workers’ compensation insurance policy.

CFO Atwater Orders Sarasota Travel Agency to Pay Back Floridians for Unauthorized Travel Insurance Claims

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 15:54:46 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater announced today that the Department of Financial Services has reached an agreement with Sarasota-based Legendary Journeys, a statewide travel agency, to reimburse nearly $90,000 to dozens of Floridians. An investigation conducted by the department determined that Legendary Journeys sold unauthorized travel insurance offered by Prime Travel Protection to Floridians from 2006 to 2008.

CFO Atwater Announces Permanent Ban, Restitution Against Senior Swindler

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 13:15:40 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today announced that he has permanently revoked the insurance licenses of John Daniel Mueller, 40, of Sarasota, for an annuity scheme that robbed tens of thousands of dollars from elderly Floridians, following an investigation by the Department of Financial Services’ Division of Agent and Agency Services.

CFO Atwater: Statement Regarding the Signing of HB 7095, the Pill Mill Bill

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 14:16:31 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today released the following statement recognizing Governor Rick Scott and Attorney General Pam Bondi for the signing of House Bill 7095, the pill mill bill, and their efforts to combat Florida’s pill mill epidemic.

CFO Jeff Atwater Joins Florida Marlins, Federal Alliance for Safe Homes on the Ball Field to Promote “Protect Your Home Base”

Mon, 23 May 2011 03:19:14 GMT

Florida’s Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater joined the Florida Marlins and Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH) on the field today to announce the “Protect Your Home Base” initiative, encouraging Floridians to prepare and protect their homes and families before the beginning of hurricane season on June 1. This signature event is one of several highlighted in FLASH’s 2011 Great Hurricane Blowout preparedness campaign to raise awareness about strengthening homes and safeguarding families.

CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Arrests in Statewide Crackdown on Identity Theft, Workers’ Compensation Fraud

Fri, 20 May 2011 20:29:11 GMT

As part of a statewide crackdown on identity theft and workers’ compensation fraud, Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today the arrests of three Lake Worth men for using stolen social security numbers to fraudulently gain employment. Investigations continue into the possible fraudulent use of the same social security numbers by other individuals across the state.

CFO Jeff Atwater Announces the Arrests of Two Arsonists in Polk County

Fri, 20 May 2011 20:28:10 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jeff Atwater today announced the arrests of Rodney Michael Lane and John Robert Reid of Frostproof after a joint investigation involving the Division of State Fire Marshal’s Bureau of Fire and Arson Investigations (BFAI) determined the two men set fire to a residence, causing approximately $40,000 in damage, in an attempt to cover up a burglary.

Statement from Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater at Public Hearing on Life Insurance Companies' Practices

Thu, 19 May 2011 19:44:19 GMT

Today, the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation conducted a public hearing with Metropolitan Life Insurance Company and Nationwide Life Insurance Company to evaluate a potential industry practice that involves the use of the U.S. Social Security Administration’s Death Master File.

CFO Jeff Atwater Prevails at Fourth District Court of Appeals Against Vero Beach Senior Scammer

Thu, 19 May 2011 13:37:34 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater today announced that Mitchell Brian Storfer, 50, has been stripped of his insurance licenses for participating in an annuity scheme that generated more than $100,000 in commissions for him and his agency, Seniors Financial International, Inc. of Vero Beach. This follows a yearlong appeal by Storfer to the Fourth District Court of Appeals (DCA) that the Department’s Division of Legal Services successfully fought.

Statement from Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater Regarding External Review of the State Board of Administration

Tue, 17 May 2011 18:17:00 GMT

Today, Florida’s Governor, Attorney General and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) unanimously approved an agenda item initiated by CFO Jeff Atwater to conduct an external review of the State Board of Administration’s risk management processes and financial controls.

CFO Atwater Announces Business Roundtables in Recognition of Small Business Week

Tue, 17 May 2011 13:30:29 GMT

In recognition of National Small Business Week, May 16-20, Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced his office will host a series of summer small business roundtables. CFO Atwater recognizes the critical role small businesses play in Florida’s economy and wants to get direct feedback on how the state can create a more business-friendly environment, including removing regulatory barriers and fostering ideas for helping new and existing businesses grow.

Operation No Pain No Gain

Thu, 12 May 2011 21:34:11 GMT

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, The National Crime Bureau (NICB), the Hillsborough County Office of the State Attorney and the Florida Department of Financial Services announce the results of a five month investigation involving staged vehicle crashes and insurance fraud in Hillsborough County.

CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Arrests of Winter Haven Massage Clinic Employees in Undercover PIP Fraud Sting

Thu, 12 May 2011 16:23:39 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today the arrests of four Polk County men for their roles in a Personal Injury Protection (PIP) fraud scheme involving fraudulent medical billings to two insurance companies.

Media Advisory: CFO Jeff Atwater and Attorney General Pam Bondi Announce Meeting of the Medicaid and Public Assistance Fraud Strike Force

Thu, 12 May 2011 14:08:07 GMT

On Monday, May 16, Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, Chair, and Attorney General Pam Bondi, Vice Chair, will hold the second meeting of the Medicaid and Public Assistance Fraud Strike Force. The 11-member Strike Force will receive a briefing on legislation passed this Session that will impact Florida’s Medicaid and public assistance programs, discuss plans for mapping and data-sharing initiatives among agencies, as well as form standing committees to tackle key issues.

CFO Atwater Applauds Legislative Leaders for Passing Legislation to Keep Money in the Pockets of Floridians

Fri, 06 May 2011 21:09:10 GMT

Florida’s Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today commended state policymakers for supporting key legislative initiatives he proposed this Session that will help keep more money in the pockets of Floridians.

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater Sending Help to Alabama

Fri, 06 May 2011 21:03:54 GMT

Florida’s Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today that he is deploying a team from the Department of Financial Services to assist residents of Alabama impacted by last week’s tornadoes.

CFO Jeff Atwater Recognizes Arson Awareness Week

Thu, 05 May 2011 17:24:21 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jeff Atwater is encouraging Floridians to take time to recognize and honor their local firefighters during Arson Awareness Week, which continues through Saturday, May 7.

CFO Atwater Announces Arrests in Orlando PIP Fraud Investigation

Tue, 03 May 2011 18:47:46 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater today announced the arrests of a clinic manager and employee on fraud and theft charges as a result of allegations that an Orlando clinic manager coerced employees to fraudulently bill Direct General Insurance Company for more than $60,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) claims. Three others are still being sought.

CFO Jeff Atwater Presents Fire Service Awards

Tue, 03 May 2011 13:42:44 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jeff Atwater this week recognized the Fire Academy of the South, Florida State College in Jacksonville and honored 10 fire and rescue service personnel, including a retiring K-9 for exceptional dedication to fire and rescue services during the past year. CFO Atwater presented each honoree with an individual resolution signed by the Governor and members of the Cabinet at Monday evening’s Fire Service Awards ceremony. The honorees were also recognized jointly at Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting at the Capitol.

CFO Jeff Atwater Announces the Arrest of Mortgage Company Owner in $1.2 Million Scam

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 19:57:47 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater today announced the arrest of Jose Claudio Pereira, owner of BR Mortgage Group Corporation, on charges of racketeering for his part in fraudulent mortgage transactions in Broward, St. Lucie and Brevard counties.

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater: Statement Regarding Legislative Efforts to Fight Auto Insurance Fraud

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 19:53:57 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today released the following statement recognizing Senators Chris Smith (D-Oakland Park), John Thrasher (R-Jacksonville), and Garrett Richter (R-Naples) for their efforts to pass two measures that will help fight automobile insurance fraud—requiring law enforcement officers to list all passengers in an accident and the creation of civil penalties for those convicted of auto insurance fraud, the proceeds of which will be used to fund additional anti-fraud efforts.

CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Arrest of Boca Raton Man for Scamming Senior out of $25,000

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 19:47:25 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater announced today the arrest of a former Boca Raton insurance agent for scamming a 78-year-old Miami woman out of $25,000. Jeffery Schneider, 44, has been charged with four felony counts including scheme to defraud and theft from a person over 65 years of age. Schneider acted without a license, which was revoked in March 2010 for numerous licensure violations.

Florida CFO Atwater’s Department Wins $76 Million Judgment Against Former Aries Insurance Company Owners

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 14:50:35 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater announced today that a judgment has been entered against the former owners of Aries Insurance Company, Inc. for more than $76 million. The insolvency of Aries Insurance Company left approximately 58,000 policyholders and creditors with unpaid claims when it was ordered into receivership in 2002 and two state guaranty funds were triggered to pay those claims.

CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Grant to Aid Training for Volunteer Firefighters

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 20:39:49 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jeff Atwater today announced that the Northwest Florida Volunteer Firefighter Weekend Council is receiving more than $580,000 in a grant from the Department of Homeland Security. The grant will provide funding to promote training and retention of volunteer firefighters in the state.

CFO Jeff Atwater Announces the Arrest of Arsonist in Trenton

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 20:58:14 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater today announced the arrest of Johnathan Cumbie of Trenton on charges of setting fire to three different Gilchrist County homes in the past week. Cumbie was identified as having been seen leaving one of the residences approximately five minutes before the fire.

CFO Jeff Atwater and State Attorney Jerry Hill Announce the Arrest of Three Polk County Women Charged with Stealing State Funds

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 18:08:40 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater, together with State Attorney Jerry Hill, today announced the arrests of three Polk County women charged with stealing state funds that were supposed to help citizens in need with utility costs. The arrests resulted from a joint investigation conducted by the Florida Department of Financial Services’ (DFS) Office of Fiscal Integrity and the Florida Department of Community Affairs Inspector General.

CFO Jeff Atwater Announces the Arrest of ‘Most Wanted’ Insurance Fraud Suspect, Ponzi Scheme Operator

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 14:02:42 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater today announced the arrest of one of Florida’s “most wanted” insurance fraud criminals, defendant Erline Telfort, of Broward County. The arrest came last week as new information was provided through the CFO’s Public Assistance Fraud Unit after the launch of his “Most Wanted” insurance fraud website,
www.MyFloridaCFO.com/PressOffice/MostWanted, which engages Floridians in the search for scammers who have eluded law enforcement.

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater Statement Regarding Additional $30 Million to Promote Florida’s Beaches

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 18:05:48 GMT

Today, Governor Rick Scott announced that BP has allocated an additional $30 million to help several Northwest Florida counties promote Florida’s beaches following the devastating Deepwater Horizon oil spill almost a year ago.

CFO Jeff Atwater Statement Regarding Staged Accident Demonstration and Meeting with Insurance Fraud Tipsters in Tampa

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 20:01:52 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater participated in a staged accident demonstration in Tampa today hosted by Allstate and the Tampa Police Department. The event showcased several types of staged auto accidents used in insurance fraud scams. Florida currently has three of the top five cities nationally for questionable medical claims associated with staged accidents –Tampa, Miami and Orlando. CFO Atwater also met with two individuals who recently received rewards from the Division of Insurance Fraud for providing information that directly led to arrests and convictions in two insurance fraud schemes.

CFO Jeff Atwater Offers Post-Storm Tips, Urges Tampa Residents Affected by Tornadoes to Be Watchful for Unlicensed Contractors

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 14:27:47 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater is urging Tampa residents whose homes and property were damaged last week by tornadoes to be on the lookout for unlicensed contractors, and to make sure they thoroughly understand all of the details before signing any contract with a contractor.

CFO Atwater Announces Arrest of Delray Beach Insurance Agent for Scamming Seniors Out of Life Savings

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 21:10:14 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater today announced the arrest of Larry Yale Krakow, 53, of Delray Beach, on charges of organized scheme to defraud and grand theft involving numerous senior annuity transactions in the Palm Beach County area. The arrest follows a nine-month suspension and a $25,000 fine previously levied against Krakow following an extensive administrative review by Department’s Division of Agent and Agency Services. The arrest this week was made by the Department’s Division of Insurance Fraud (DIF).

CFO Atwater Presents Award to VeteransPlus in Recognition of April as Financial Literacy Month

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 14:38:12 GMT

At a Cabinet meeting today, Florida CFO Jeff Atwater sponsored a resolution recognizing April as Financial Literacy Month. In celebration of Financial Literacy Month, CFO Atwater presented Clearwater-based VeteransPlus with the 2011 Champion of Financial Literacy Award for providing financial education to more than 4,000 military personnel and their families last year. Each year, the Florida Financial Literacy Council (FFLC) selects an individual or organization that possesses a strong commitment to financial literacy education in Florida to receive the Champion of Financial Literacy Award.

CFO Atwater Wants You to Help Track Down the ‘Most Wanted’ Insurance Fraud Fugitives

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 13:07:41 GMT

In a continuing effort to implement new strategies to combat insurance fraud, Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today launched the “Most Wanted” insurance fraud website, www.myfloridacfo.com/pressoffice/mostwanted, that will engage Floridians in the search for scammers who have eluded law enforcement. The website will feature three individuals a quarter who are wanted by the CFO’s Division of Insurance Fraud or State Fire Marshal on charges ranging from organized scheme to defraud to arson.

April is Financial Literacy Month, CFO Atwater Encourages Floridians to Start Saving

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 17:08:53 GMT

A recent study released by the FINRA Investor Education Foundation revealed that of the 500 Floridians surveyed 61 percent lacked a "rainy day" fund to cover expenses for three months in case of emergencies such as sickness, job loss or an economic downturn. The study also determined that 23 percent of Florida households were not making ends meet and spent more than their income over the past year, further emphasizing the need for Floridians to start saving now for a rainy day.

Statement Regarding Statewide Drug Strike Force

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 17:21:56 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today released the following statement commending Governor Scott and Attorney General Bondi for creating the Statewide Drug Strike Force.

Seminole Casualty Insurance Company Ordered Into Receivership

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 20:10:07 GMT

Leon County Circuit Court Judge Terry P. Lewis today ordered Seminole Casualty Insurance Company into receivership for the purpose of liquidation. The Florida Department of Financial Services is appointed Receiver.

Statement Regarding Legislative Efforts to Provide Relief to Victims of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 18:44:10 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today released the following statement recognizing Senator Don Gaetz (R-Destin) and Representatives Jimmy Patronis (R-Panama City), Clay Ingram (R-Pensacola), Marti Coley (R- Marianna), Brad Drake (R- Eucheeanna) and Doug Broxson (R- Gulf Breeze) for their efforts to provide relief to victims of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

CFO Atwater Announces Arrest of Miami Public Adjuster in Attempted $2 Million Insurance Fraud Scheme

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 14:08:00 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater announced today the surrender of public adjuster Erasmo Zorilla in Miami who attempted to defraud the North Pointe Casualty Insurance Company out of almost $2.5 million in an insurance claim associated with Hurricane Wilma.

CFO Atwater Encourages Floridians to Participate In Free Outreach Events During Consumer Protection Week

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 14:44:55 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater is encouraging Floridians to learn more about how to protect themselves from scams by participating in National Consumer Protection Week 2011, which continues through Saturday, March 12. CFO Atwater’s Department of Financial Services is hosting or participating in 30 events around the state during the week to promote awareness, including workshops on identify theft, insurance needs when buying a home, and protecting seniors.

CFO Atwater Announces 17 Arrests in Miami-Based Auto Insurance Fraud Bust

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 20:48:04 GMT

At a press conference today in Miami, Florida’s Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater joined Miami-Dade County State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle to announce the results of Operation Dark Horizon, the largest Personal Injury Protection (PIP) bust since the CFO took office. The Miami-based investigation by Atwater’s Division of Insurance Fraud today resulted in the arrests of 17 individuals including a clinic owner, doctors, clinic employees and staged accident recruiters. Eight additional individuals have been charged and are being sought by investigators.

CFO Atwater Announces Sentencing of Miami Public Adjuster for Pocketing $360,000 from 82 Clients

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 14:12:25 GMT

As part of his commitment to crackdown on insurance fraud, Florida CFO Jeff Atwater announced the arrest and sentencing today of a former public adjuster, Abraham M. Blumberg of Miami, on one charge of first-degree organized scheme to defraud for pocketing more than $360,000 in funds from 82 clients and using the money to pay personal debts.

CFO Atwater Recognizes Florida Saves Week; Encourages Eligible Floridians to Claim Earned Income Tax Credit

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 15:24:09 GMT

At a Cabinet meeting today, Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater sponsored a resolution recognizing Feb. 20-27 as Florida Saves Week. In concert with Florida Saves Week, CFO Atwater is encouraging Floridians to learn more about the importance of saving and preparing financially for their futures at one of a series of workshops his office is hosting.

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater Announces First Meeting and New Web Site for the Medicaid and Public Assistance Fraud Strike Force

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 13:44:16 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today announced the first meeting of the Medicaid and Public Assistance Fraud Strike Force. The Strike Force was created during the 2010 Legislative Session to increase the effectiveness of programs and initiatives that work to prevent, detect and prosecute Medicaid and public assistance fraud. CFO Atwater serves as Chair and Attorney General Bondi serves as Vice Chair of the 11-member Strike Force.

Statement by Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater Regarding Medicaid Reform Proposals Advocated by Senate

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 18:14:22 GMT

Florida’s Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, who will chair the legislatively-created Medicaid and Public Assistance Fraud Strike Force, today released the following statement regarding the Medicaid reform proposals announced yesterday by Senate leaders:

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater Creates Second PIP Squad in Tampa, Part of Ongoing Push to Put the Brakes on this Costly Crime

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 20:49:21 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater, who oversees the Department of Financial Services and the department’s sworn Division of Insurance Fraud (DIF), has created a second Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Fraud Squad in Tampa to combat the growing number of staged accidents and fraudulent auto insurance claims.

Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater Appoints Members to the Newly-Formed Medicaid Strike Force

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 19:41:08 GMT

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today announced the appointment of five law enforcement members to the newly-formed Medicaid and Public Assistance Fraud Strike Force. The Strike Force was created during the 2010 Legislative Session to increase the coordination and effectiveness of programs and initiatives that work to prevent, detect and prosecute Medicaid and public assistance fraud. CFO Atwater serves as Chair of the 11-member Strike Force.

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater Asks GCCF Claimants to Provide Input on Proposed Methodology

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 18:14:23 GMT

Florida’s Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater is asking the state’s business community and BP Oil Spill claimants for their suggestions and any concerns regarding the Gulf Coast Claims Facility (GCCF) and Fund Administrator Ken Feinberg’s proposed methodology for victim compensation. Last week, Feinberg’s GCCF made public his recommendation on ways to award Final Claim compensation, which would also require claimants to waive any future right to sue BP, the GCCF or other parties involved with the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill.

Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater Appoints Thomas Kirwin as Deputy CFO Over Law Enforcement

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 17:21:36 GMT

Florida’s Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today announced the appointment of veteran prosecutor and Assistant United States Attorney Thomas Kirwin as Deputy CFO over Law Enforcement with a laser-focus on combating insurance fraud. Mr. Kirwin will oversee the Department of Financial Services’ three law enforcement areas: the Division of Insurance Fraud, which enforces the criminal laws related to insurance transactions, the Bureau of Fire and Arson Investigations, which is responsible for conducting fire, arson and explosives investigations and the Office of Fiscal Integrity, which investigates fraud, waste and abuse of state money and resources.

Florida CFO Atwater Announces Five Arrests Tied to $118,000 in Fraudulent PIP Claims

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 14:33:20 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater today announced that the Department of Financial Services’ Division of Insurance Fraud (DIF), in partnership with the Tampa Police Department and Hillsborough Sheriff’s Department, has arrested five individuals accused of submitting $118,000 in fraudulent insurance claims through a Tampa clinic. Two of the suspects, husband and wife Isidoro and Yusimy Martinez, were previously arrested by DIF detectives for a similar scheme involving another Tampa clinic.

CFO Atwater's Division of Insurance Fraud Arrests Duval County Man on Multiple Charges for Avoiding Workers' Compensation Premiums

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 15:51:09 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater today announced the arrest of David Rodriguez-Socarras, 49, a Duval County man who allegedly created a "shell" company and fictitious name in order to cash nearly $3 million in payroll checks through a money service business to avoid workers' compensation premiums and payroll taxes.

CFO Jeff Atwater Provides Rewards to Eight Citizens for Tips that Led to Uncovering $2 Million in Insurance Fraud

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 15:45:58 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater today announced $50,500 in rewards for eight Floridians who provided key information that led to arrests and convictions in five major insurance fraud cases. These citizens helped uncover more than $2 million in fraudulent insurance billings leading to 26 arrests to date.

CFO Atwater Appoints South Florida Attorney, Community Advocate Wendy Sartory Link as Chair of Healthy Kids Board

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 15:00:07 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater announced today that he has tapped the expertise of West Palm Beach attorney and community advocate Wendy Sartory Link to serve as the Chair of the Healthy Kids Board. The Florida Healthy Kids program is a public-private corporation that has provided subsidized health insurance to school-aged kids for 20 years.

Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater Announces the Appointments of Key Staff at the Department of Financial Services

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 13:41:32 GMT

Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today announced the appointment of three key staff members at the Department of Financial Services who will oversee the payment of the state's bills, information technology resources and program assessment.

CFO Atwater and Financial Literacy Council Announce VeteransPlus as Recipient of the 2011 Champion of Financial Literacy Award

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 13:37:14 GMT

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater today announced that Clearwater-based VeteransPlus has been named the winner of the 2011 Champion of Financial Literacy Award for providing financial education to more than 4,000 military personnel and their families last year. Each year, the Florida Financial Literacy Council (FFLC) selects an individual or organization that possesses a strong commitment to financial literacy education in Florida to receive the Champion of Financial Literacy Award.