Released: April 18, 2008

A Metairie insurance agent and his agency have been issued cease and desist orders and fine notices for alleged misappropriation of insurance premiums.

Robert Emery, 62, was served the cease and desist order at Louisiana State Police detective offices in Kenner today. He and his agency, Student Insurance, Inc., were both served with C&Ds and $5,000 fine notices each by Department of Insurance Fraud Section investigators for allegedly failing to remit insurance premiums.

It is alleged that after Hurricane Katrina, Emery told several clients that their premium payment checks were lost in the storm. At least three schools and other organizations reissued premium payments to Emery who did not remit them to the company and as a result the clients did not receive policies.

Department records show that Emery was licensed for accident, health and life insurance from October 8, 1973, through April 30, 2006, and Student Insurance, Inc. was licensed for accident, health and life insurance from April 24, 1973, through April 30, 2006, with the Department of Insurance. Emery is listed as the registered agent and president of Student Insurance, Inc.

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

-30-