Released: March 31, 2010

A Lafayette agent was arrested by the Louisiana State Police Insurance Fraud and Auto Theft Unit and served by Department of Insurance Fraud Section Investigators today with a cease and desist order, license revocation and fine notice for alleged misappropriation, misrepresentation and forgery.

Joseph Stephen Buck, 26, was arrested by State Police today on 26 counts of Prohibited Acts, 21 counts of Forgery and 1 count of Felony Theft. He was also served this morning by the Department of Insurance Fraud Section Investigators with a cease and desist order, license revocation and $10,000 fine notice.

As a producer writing employer group policies including short-term disability, cancer, accident, hospital indemnity and specified disease, Buck allegedly failed to remit premiums to the insurance company which resulted in his clients receiving cancellation notices for non-payment of premium. He is also alleged to have written bogus policies on individuals who were not employees of the group from which he received commissions.

Department records show that Buck was issued a Life, Health and Accident license in March 2007 which was valid until being summary suspended today. His license will be revoked in 30 days unless he requests a hearing with the Department of Insurance.

Buck has 30 days from the time of notice to file a written demand for an administrative hearing to contest the regulatory action taken against him by the Department of Insurance.

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.