CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Arrest of North Port Man on
charges of Workers’ Compensation Claim Fraud and Grand
Theft
2/20/2012
Contact: Anna Alexopoulos
(850) 413-2842
TALLAHASSEE—Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced the arrest of a North
Port man as a result of a fraudulent workers’ compensation claim. Jovan Bokun was arrested by
detectives from the Florida Department of Financial Services’ Division of Insurance Fraud and
charged with workers’ compensation fraud and grand theft after an investigation revealed that he
submitted false insurance claim information regarding his physical capabilities. This false claim
allowed him to collect over $34,000 from Dec. 2006 to Aug. 2011 in fraudulent workers’
compensation benefits.
“Florida’s workers’ compensation system is designed to protect Florida’s workforce,” CFO
Atwater said. “When fraudsters abuse the system, it cripples businesses and honest Floridians
bear the burden through increased premiums. This is why my office is committed to putting bad
actors who perpetrate fraud behind bars.”
On Dec.11, 2006, Bokun injured his left wrist while working as a general laborer. Bokun's
employer, Parker Hannifin Corporation, filed a workers’ compensation claim with Underwriters,
Safety and Claims Insurance on his behalf. Bokun misrepresented the extent of his injury and
was subsequently captured on surveillance video using his injured hand to lift heavy objects.
It was determined that Bokun made false statements regarding his physical capabilities; Bokun
had no work restrictions as previously asserted. Bokun was booked into the Sarasota County Jail.
If convicted, he faces up to 15 years in prison.
Anyone with information regarding suspected insurance fraud is asked to call 1-800-378-0445.
Individuals who provide tips can remain anonymous and are eligible for a reward of up to
$25,000 for information that directly leads to an arrest and conviction in an insurance fraud
scheme. The Department of Financial Services to date has awarded almost $250,000 to
approximately 40 citizens as part of its Anti-Fraud Reward Program.
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Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, a statewide elected official and officer of the Florida
Cabinet, oversees the Department of Financial Services including the Division of Insurance
Fraud. 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 spending.