Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis’ Disaster Fraud Action Strike Team Arrests Unlicensed Contractor Following Hurricane Michael

PANAMA CITY, Florida, Nov. 29 -- The Florida Department of Financial Services issued the following news release:

Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Ashley Porterfield, owner of Porterfield Building, by his Disaster Fraud Action Strike Force (DFAST) for allegedly conducting unlicensed roofing repairs following Hurricane Michael.

CFO Jimmy Patronis said, "The Panhandle is recovering after Hurricane Michael, but unlicensed contractors could deal another blow to Florida families. Unlicensed activity puts Floridians in danger and takes business away from reputable contractors that follow the law. Before allowing anyone to make repairs, verify they have the required licenses and insurance. While hurricane season ends tomorrow, we will keep working to protect residents and business owners as they rebuild."

While deployed to the Panhandle following Hurricane Michael, CFO Patronis' Disaster Fraud Action Strike Team (DFAST) observed employees of Porterfield Building repairing a damaged roof. Investigators made contact to verify the company had the proper licensure and workers' compensation insurance coverage required by Florida law. It was discovered that Porterfield was not licensed to conduct business in the state.

Porterfield was arrested November 20 and booked into the Bay County Jail on charges of unlicensed contracting, a third-degree felony during a state of emergency. If convicted, Porterfield could face up to 5 years in prison.