An Orlando, Fla. insurance agent was taken into custody for allegedly misappropriating more than $30,000 in workers’ compensation insurance premiums, according to the Florida Department of Financial Services.
The department said investigators with its Division of Insurance Fraud, allege Beverly Jean Phillips, 62, of 2818 Geoffrey Drive, Orlando failed to forward insurance premiums paid by at least eight area businesses to the appropriate insurance carrier. In addition, she allegedly provided false documents to several customers as proof of coverage, when in fact they had no insurance. It is anticipated that additional victims will be discovered.
Phillips was charged with grand theft and scheme to defraud, both second-degree felonies. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department assisted in the arrest, and Phillips was booked into the Orange County Correctional Institution. If convicted on all charges, she faces up to 30 years in prison.
Action against Phillips’ insurance license is pending.
Anyone who may have purchased insurance through Phillips is urged to verify their coverage immediately. Consumers with questions can call the department’s toll-free helpline at (800) 342-2762.
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