October 22, 2012
Contact: Alexis Lambert
(850) 413-2842
CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Arrest of Davie Insurance Agent for Grand Theft
TALLAHASSEE - Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today the arrest of Joseph
Nesselt, 41, a former insurance agent for grand theft by allegedly misappropriating over $110,000 in
insurance premiums.
"The vast majority of insurance agents licensed in Florida conduct business with the highest standards of
honesty and integrity," said CFO Atwater. "But when you choose not to play by the rules you will be
caught and you will be brought to justice."
An investigation by the Department of Financial Services' Division of Insurance Fraud, acting on
information received from the Division of Agent and Agency Services, alleges that Nesselt, a licensed
insurance agent and owner of Professional Insurance Agency in Davie, collected insurance premiums
from seven victims and never secured the appropriate insurance coverage. He pocketed approximately
$110,000 in premiums paid to his agency. Based upon related allegations the Division of Agent &
Agency Services revoked his agent license and the agency's license.
Nesselt surrendered to fraud detectives Friday. If convicted, he could face up to 30 years in prison.
Anyone with information about these or any other incidents of suspected insurance fraud is asked to call
1-800-378-0445. Citizens who provide tips can remain anonymous. The Department of Financial
Services to date has awarded almost $275,000 to more than 40 citizens as part of its Anti-Fraud Reward
Program. The program rewards individuals up to $25,000 for information that directly leads to an arrest
and conviction in an insurance fraud scheme.
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Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jeff Atwater, a statewide elected official, oversees the
Department of Financial Services. 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