The 2025 Hurricane Season Begins in June — Are You Ready?
05/08/25
Tallahassee, Fla. — In observance of Hurricane Preparedness Week, the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) is sharing essential tips and resources to help Floridians strengthen their disaster plans as the 2025 Hurricane Season kicks off on June 1st.
The Department's
PrepareFL.com website serves as a comprehensive disaster preparedness and recovery information resource. While storms are a regular part of Florida life, proactive planning can significantly reduce their impact and help you recover faster. Key steps such as assembling an emergency kit, creating an evacuation plan, and safeguarding your home can make all the difference. By staying informed and taking timely precautions, Floridians can approach hurricane season with confidence and resilience, ensuring a smoother path back to normal after a storm.
The Department’s Insurance Consumer Helpline 1-877-MY-FL-CFO (693-5236) is available Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time. Call today to speak with a knowledgeable insurance specialist—free of charge. Read more...
DFS Announces Arrest of Tampa Life Plan Village President for Continuing Care Fraud
04/30/25
Tampa, Fla. – The Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS), Criminal Investigations Division (CID), announced the arrest of Tampa Life Plan Village Board President Ronald Richard Schuck on charges of Continuing Care Contract Fraud. The arrest comes following an extensive investigation into allegations of fraud and mismanagement impacting Florida’s senior citizens. Tampa Life is a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) previously known as University Village.
An investigation by the CID Office of Fiscal Integrity revealed that under Shucks' leadership, Tampa Life and Big Rock Management Company acquired Tampa Life Plan Village from bankruptcy, establishing a non-profit organization to acquire, renovate, and operate University Village, a senior living community. However, on April 3, 2024, state insurance regulators were notified that Tampa Life Plan Village intended to file for bankruptcy, cease operations, and displace its 109 residents. Schuck has been accused of misappropriating funds from the reserves and mismanaging essential residential services, including shelter and nursing care, resulting in the painful displacement and relocation of these vulnerable individuals. Read more...
