CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Arrest of North Port Man on charges of Workers’ Compensation Claim Fraud and Grand Theft

TALLAHASSEE, Fla., Feb. 20 -- The Florida Department of Financial Services issued the following news release:

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced the arrest of a North Port man as a result of a fraudulent workers' compensation claim. Jovan Bokun was arrested by detectives from the Florida Department of Financial Services' Division of Insurance Fraud and charged with workers' compensation fraud and grand theft after an investigation revealed that he submitted false insurance claim information regarding his physical capabilities. This false claim allowed him to collect over $34,000 from Dec. 2006 to Aug. 2011 in fraudulent workers' compensation benefits.

"Florida's workers' compensation system is designed to protect Florida's workforce," CFO Atwater said. "When fraudsters abuse the system, it cripples businesses and honest Floridians bear the burden through increased premiums. This is why my office is committed to putting bad actors who perpetrate fraud behind bars."

On Dec.11, 2006, Bokun injured his left wrist while working as a general laborer. Bokun's employer, Parker Hannifin Corporation, filed a workers' compensation claim with Underwriters, Safety and Claims Insurance on his behalf. Bokun misrepresented the extent of his injury and was subsequently captured on surveillance video using his injured hand to lift heavy objects.

It was determined that Bokun made false statements regarding his physical capabilities; Bokun had no work restrictions as previously asserted. Bokun was booked into the Sarasota County Jail. If convicted, he faces up to 15 years in prison.

Anyone with information regarding suspected insurance fraud is asked to call 1-800-378-0445. Individuals who provide tips can remain anonymous and are eligible for a reward of up to $25,000 for information that directly leads to an arrest and conviction in an insurance fraud scheme. The Department of Financial Services to date has awarded almost $250,000 to approximately 40 citizens as part of its Anti-Fraud Reward Program.

TNS MJ88-120221-3781734 StaffFurigay