An interior designer who had claimed disability, recently pleaded guilty on two counts of fraud. He had received approximately $147,000 in disability payments, before an insurance company representative saw the man on television, working.
Fifty-six-year-old Ronald E. Hunt had claimed that he was not able to work as an interior designer and had been approved for disability benefits. However, an employee with the insurance company happened to see Hunt on an HGTV home improvement program. The employee, who was working for the insurer that was paying Hunt's disability claim, notified the state's department of insurance.
"An investigation confirmed Hunt intentionally and knowingly concealed his secondary employment from his disability insurance company by falsifying written statements and deceiving a company field representative," read the Franchise Tax Board statement.
According to officials, Hunt had made over $400,000 during the three-year time period he was claiming disability. Officials also stated that Hunt had not paid income tax during that time.
The court ordered that Hunt pay $180,000 in fines and restitution. He was also ordered to serve 60 months of probation and complete 200 hours of community service.
The Law Firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A. represents people who have had their valid long term disability benefits denied, delayed or terminated irrespective if the policy was purchased individually or issued through an employer group policy. We can also assist with the initial application process, during the administrative appeals process, termination, litigation in state or federal court, and negotiating a one-time lump sum settlement or buy-out.
You can reach Miami Insurance Claims Lawyer J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo by dialing his direct number at (786) 272-5841, calling the main office at (305) 461-1095, or Toll Free at 1 (866) 71-CLAIM or email Attorney Gonzalez-Sirgo directly at [email protected].
