Released: September 19, 2007

A Florida man was issued a cease and desist order today for allegedly soliciting public adjuster services in Louisiana without a license.

David A. Hogan of Port St. Lucie, Florida, operating under the name Utopia Public Adjusting, was served with a C&D by Department of Insurance Fraud Section Investigators in New Orleans today for allegedly soliciting business as a public adjuster in Louisiana without a license.

Hogan is alleged to have solicited adjuster services in Louisiana on the Internet and by posting printed advertisements in newspapers and other periodicals. He also allegedly attempted to represent clients as a public adjuster during mediation. These actions violate state law as they deceive and mislead the citizens of Louisiana to the untrue belief that Hogan and Utopia Public Adjusting are legitimately operating in this state. Department Fraud Section Investigators found that Hogan also is not licensed as a public adjuster in the state of Florida.

Commissioner Donelon urges consumers who feel uneasy about any insurance-related transaction, including those involving public adjusters, to call the Department of Insurance Fraud Section at 225-342-4956 or 1-800-259-5300. If callers don’t want their names used, they can request that their involvement be kept confidential.

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