PEMBROKE PINES, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Miguel Ferrer, a retired Town of Davie Fire Captain, for insurance fraud related to a claim for additional living expense (ALE) connected to a homeowner property claim from March 2022.

CFO Jimmy Patronis said, "This case is a reminder of the serious consequences of homeowners insurance fraud. I want to commend the hard work of our investigative team at CID and their dedication to ensure that individuals who commit fraud are held accountable. It’s particularly sad when those arrested for insurance fraud are former first responders. As CFO, it is my duty to fight fraud and deter others who might consider committing homeowners’ fraud to make a quick buck. If you or someone you know is suspicious of fraud, please report it immediately at FraudFreeFlorida.com."

An investigation was conducted after a referral was submitted by Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (Citizens). The allegations stated that Miguel Ferrer submitted altered falsified lodging invoices and misrepresented the number of nights he stayed at, and paid to, a resort hotel in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, FL. In March 2022, Ferrer filed a claim for water intrusion under his homeowner’s policy with Citizens due to interior damage caused by a clogged air conditioning drain line. Ferrer had to vacate his residence in June 2022 to begin repairs. During this time, he stayed at the Windjammer Resort & Beach Club in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, FL. However, Ferrer submitted falsified lodging invoices claiming an additional 26 nights at the resort, which were confirmed to be fabricated. Further investigation revealed that Ferrer was in Ocala, FL at the Fire Academy serving as an instructor during various dates that he claimed to be staying at the resort. His Sun Pass transponder recorded traveling southbound from Ocala to Broward County, contradicting his claims of being at the resort.

Miguel Ferrer was arrested and booked into the Broward Sheriff’s Office Main Jail where he was charged with Insurance Fraud and Criminal Use of Personal Identification Information. If convicted, he could face 10 years in prison.

Please Note: In legislation recently signed by Governor DeSantis, the Division of Investigative and Forensic Services has been renamed the Criminal Investigations Division or “CID.”

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About CFO Jimmy Patronis

Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is a statewide elected official and a member of Florida’s Cabinet who oversees the Department of Financial Services. CFO Patronis works each day to fight insurance fraud, support Florida’s firefighters, and ensure the state’s finances are stable to support economic growth in the state. Follow the activities of the Department on Facebook (FLDFS) and X (@FLDFS).