Calif. Investigation Leads To Charge Of Theft From An Elder

LOS ANGELES, May 31 -- The California Department of Insurance issued the following news release:

Norman H. Baker, 58, of Los Angeles, was arrested on one felony count of theft from an elder. The arrest was made by California Department of Insurance Investigators. Bail has been set at $1 million. If convicted, Baker faces up to five years in jail.

"The fact that Baker is a repeat offender is appalling," said Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones. "I am committed to doing everything within my power to stop criminals like Baker who prey on vulnerable seniors."

According to investigators, in July 2011, while presenting himself as a public adjuster under the name of Sharp Services Inc., Baker allegedly persuaded a 76-year-oldhomeowner to cancel a contract with a public adjuster that was handling a fire damage claim. According to witness statements, Baker told the victim that the previous adjuster was not handling his claim properly and convinced the victim to sign a new contact with him to complete the claim process and repairs on his home.

The claim with State Farm Insurance was settled by the time Baker became involved, and the victim's mortgage company had already received a check for $72,724 in June 2011.

The investigation revealed that in August 2011 Baker received the first draw check of $24,241 from the mortgage company made payable to the homeowner and Sharp to initiate the repairs of the victim's home. The homeowner endorsed the check and gave it to Baker; however, Baker did not begin repairs. When the victim's son demanded work orders and receipts, Baker refused to provide the information or return the money. In March 2012, the victim's son filed a complaint with the Department of Insurance, which led to the investigation and Baker's arrest.

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