CFO Jeff Atwater Announces Arrest of America’s Most Wanted
Fugitive During Insurance Fraud Investigation
5/1/2012
Contact: Anna Alexopoulos
(850) 413-2842
TALLAHASSEE—Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater announced today the arrest of federal
fugitive, Charles Leon Parker, 69, of Madison, during an insurance fraud investigation. Parker, a
fugitive since 1983, is an alleged sexual predator wanted in Douglas County, Ga. for three counts of
child molestation and two counts of incest. A description of the investigation into Parker for sexual
molestation was aired on the popular television show “America’s Most Wanted” in March 2006.
“I commend our insurance fraud detectives for their excellent investigative work in helping bring this
fugitive and sexual predator to justice,” CFO Atwater said. “Their dedication and experience helped
uncover a dangerous fugitive hiding in Florida who will now be held accountable.”
During an investigation by the Florida Department of Financial Services’ Division of Insurance Fraud
regarding a suspicious home fire claim filed by Parker’s wife, Rose Healan, with Gulfstream Insurance
Company, investigators attempted to make contact with R.M. Healan for questioning related to a
homeowner’s insurance fraud investigation.
Healan arrived home as detectives approached his residence and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office
conducted a routine vehicle stop. When Healan failed to provide deputies proper identification, he was
arrested for driving without a license. A fingerprint check later revealed his true identity to be Charles
Leon Parker, a federal fugitive wanted by the U.S. Marshal’s Office for the past 29 years.
Parker was taken into custody today by the U.S. Marshal’s Service. The Division of Insurance Fraud has
also filed additional 2nd Degree Felony insurance fraud charges against Parker and his wife, Rose
Healan.
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.
Chief Financial Officer 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 spending.