Retired Davie fire chief arrested for insurance fraud – NBC 6 South Florida

A retired Davie Fire Department captain was arrested on insurance fraud charges related to a claim for damages for a 2022 resort stay, state authorities said Tuesday.

Miguel Ferrer, 49, is charged with insurance fraud and criminal use of personal identification information, Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis said in a news release.

According to the press release, Ferrer filed a water intrusion claim under his home insurance policy with Citizens Property Insurance Corporation in March 2022 due to interior damage caused by a clogged air conditioning drain line.

Ferrer was forced to vacate his home in June 2022 to begin repairs and stayed at a resort in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, but later submitted fake accommodation bills showing 26 additional nights at the resort, the release said.

Investigators discovered that Ferrer was in Ocala on several days as an instructor at the fire academy and said he was staying at the resort, the press release said.

His Sun Pass transponder recorded his drive south from Ocala to Broward County, which contradicted his statement that he was at the resort, the press release said.

Ferrer was arrested and taken to prison. If convicted, he faces up to ten years in prison.

“This case reminds us of the serious consequences of homeowners insurance fraud. I want to commend the hard work of our investigative team at CID and their commitment to ensuring that individuals who commit fraud are held accountable,” Patronis said in a statement. “It is especially sad when those arrested for insurance fraud are former first responders. As CFO, it is my duty to combat fraud and deter others who may consider committing homeowners insurance fraud to make a quick buck.”