Division of Administrative Hearings, Florida
Filed: Jul. 23, 1998
The Department of Insurance (Agency) has charged Respondent with various violations of Chapter 626, Florida Statutes, related to her fitness for continued licensure as an insurance agent. Specifically, the Administrative Complaint dated May 22, 1998, alleges that on July 31, 1997, Respondent pled nolo contendere to presenting a false statement of insurance coverage and grand theft, had adjudication withheld, and was sentenced to probation, restitution, and community service. The Administrative Complaint also alleges that on September 12, 1997, Respondent pled guilty to presenting a false statement of insurance coverage and grand theft and failed to notify the Department of Insurance of her plea. The Administrative Complaint alleges that Respondent thereby lacks qualifications for licensure, has demonstrated a lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance and has violated other laws and rules regarding adjudication of guilt or pleas of guilt or nolo contendere. The issues in this proceeding are whether those violations occurred and if so, what discipline is appropriate.Agency proved only that Respondent violated statutes regarding pleas of nolo contendere. Without more than the court records (no witnesses, no testimony), the underlying offenses were not proven.
