CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Arrest of Three North Florida Roofers for Unlicensed Insurance Activity
TALLAHASSEE, FL – May 13, 2013 – (RealEstateRama) — Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today the arrests of Derek Shawn Kellog, 31, Crawfordville; Corey Jermaine Brownlee, 30, Jacksonville; and Sean McCaslin, 49, Tallahassee; employees of Roofmasters, Inc., for acting as unlicensed public adjusters while soliciting homeowners for roof repairs in the Tallahassee area.
An investigation by the Department of Financial Services’ Division of Insurance Fraud revealed that Roofmasters, Inc., based in Jacksonville, used high-pressure sales tactics and informed homeowners they were “insurance specialists” and could assist them in dealing with their insurance companies. Company literature notes that homeowners may be entitled to a new roof with no out-of-pocket expense. Roofmasters, Inc. submitted an insurance claim on behalf of a homeowner, violating Florida law.
Kellog, Brownlee and McCaslin were booked into Leon County Jail. If convicted, they each face up to 5 years in prison.
CFO Atwater encourages Floridians to Verify Before You Buy to ensure that the insurance adjuster, agent or company you are dealing with is licensed to transact business in Florida.
Anyone with information of suspected insurance fraud is asked to call 800-378-0445. Citizens who provide tips can remain anonymous. The Department of Financial Services to date has awarded almost $275,000 to more than 40 citizens as part of its Anti-Fraud Reward Program. The program rewards individuals up to $25,000 for information that directly leads to an arrest and conviction in an insurance fraud scheme.
Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, a statewide elected official, oversees the Department of Financial Services. CFO Atwater’s priorities include fighting financial fraud, abuse and waste in government; reducing government spending and regulatory burdens that chase away businesses; and providing transparency and accountability in spending.
Contact:
Anna Alexopoulos
(850) 413-2842
