Fla. Dept. Seeks Disciplinary Action Against Orlando-Area Agents for Unlicensed Sales

The Florida Department of Financial Services is seeking to revoke or suspend the licenses of two Orlando-area insurance agents who allegedly marketed phony policies.

Michael Edward Rock of Orlando, is accused of marketing phony medical malpractice coverage to physicians and collecting $45,000 in premiums from at least one. Rock operated Embassy Bonding and Surety, Ltd. He was arrested in November on charges of grand theft, organized fraud and transacting insurance without a license.

William Raymond Orlando of Tavernier, is accused of selling phony health insurance coverage to several small businesses in the Keys. He sold policies for Local 16, an unlicensed entity that reportedly operated as United States Workers of America Local 16 National Health Fund, IIAWU National Health Fund, and Local 16 National Health Fund.

Since February 2001, the department has shut down 14 unlicensed entities and their various affiliates after receiving complaints about unpaid claims. Entities that are not licensed in Florida are not regulated, and therefore there are no assurances of their ability to pay claims.

As of last October 1, it is a third-degree felony for anyone to transact unlicensed insurance in Florida, and agents who sell unlicensed policies can be held responsible for unpaid claims.