CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Arrest of a Wellington Insurance Agent for Fraud

Targeted News Service

TALLAHASSEE, Fla., Oct. 15 -- The Florida Department of Financial Services issued the following news release:

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today announced the arrest of Leon Mobley, 45, a licensed insurance agent in Wellington for allegedly submitting false and forged wind mitigation verification inspection forms on behalf of clients to obtain discounted homeowner's premiums. "Floridians place their trust in the hands of insurance agents and a fraudulent policy can devastate not only a consumer's financial security but also their confidence in the insurance process," said CFO Atwater. "My office will continue to ensure that licensed insurance agents in Florida are held to the highest standards of honesty and integrity." In July, a consumer notified the Department of Financial Services that Mobley had allegedly submitted a fraudulent wind mitigation form to her insurance company without prior knowledge or approval. Subsequent investigations identified two homeowners that received premium discounts on their homeowners' insurance policies based on wind mitigation inspections that never took place. The forms contained forged homeowner and inspector signatures. Mobley was charged with filing a false and fraudulent insurance claim and uttering forged instruments. Both are third degree felonies. Mobley was booked into Palm Beach County Jail. If convicted, he faces up to 5 years in prison and possible action against his insurance license. Anyone with information involving suspected insurance fraud is asked to call 1-800-378-0445. Citizens who provide tips can remain anonymous. The Department of Financial Services to date has awarded almost $342,000 to more than 50 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 state spending.