Petitioner: DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE
Respondent: DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR.
Judges: DIANE CLEAVINGER
Agency: Department of Financial Services
Locations: Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida
Filed: Mar. 23, 2000
Status: Closed
Settled and/or Dismissed prior to entry of RO/FO on Monday, February 19, 2001.
Latest Update: Nov. 17, 2024
FILED
FEB 21 2900
THE TREASURER OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA
DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE
BILL NELSON TREASURER AND .
INSURANCE COMMISSIONER
On Docketed by:
ty
IN THE MATTER OF uN
DONALD WILLIAM SABO, UR. Vv CASE NO.: 28892-99-AG
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ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINT i=)
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TO: DONALD WILLIAM SABO, UR. === = i]
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3532 Tidal Marsh Drive BSG NP
Jacksonville, Florida 32250-2231 Ba Ot
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DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR. Se So
Sunshine Casualty my o
8122 Lem Turner Road, Suite 1
Jacksonville, FL 32208-2760
YOU, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., are hereby notified that the
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Insurance Commissioner of the State of Florida has caused to be
made an investigation of your activities while licensed as an
insurance agent in this state, as a result of which it is
alleged:
: GENERAL ALLEGATIONS
1. Pursuant to Chapter 626, Florida Statutes, you,.. DONALD
WILLIAM SABO, JR., license identification number A229487, are
Den ne Toy
. currently licensed in this state as a Residential Property and
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Casualty Joint Underwriting Agent (“RCPJUA”), and as a general
lines agent.
2. At all times pertinent to the dates and occurrence
referred to herein, you, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., were licensed
in this state to transact property and casualty insurance.
3. Pursuant to Chapter 626, Florida Statutes, the Florida
Department of Insurance has jurisdiction over your insurance
licenses and appointments.
4. During all times material to the allegations contained
in this complaint you, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JUR., operated
Sunshine Casualty Insurance (“Sunshine Casualty”) agency at 8122-
1 Lem Turner Road, Jacksonville, Florida.
5. At all times pertinent to the allegations of this
complaint, you, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., were the designated
primary agent for sunshine Casualty.
6. At all times pertinent to the allegations of this
complaint you, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., also held corporate
officer positions with two insurance agency corporations:
Sunshine State Insurance Group of Arlington, Inc. (“Sunshine
State”) and Sunshine Casualty. The corporate address shown for
Sunshine State is shown as 6506 Beach Boulevard, Jacksonville,
Florida 32216. The corporate address for Sunshine Casualty is
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shown as 8122-1 Lem Turner Road, Jacksonville, Florida 32208.
7. As a corporate officer of Sunshine State and Sunshine
Casualty, and as the designated primary agent for Sunshine
Casualty, you, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., knew or should have
known of the activities of salaried employees under your direct
supervision and control and you were responsible and accountable
for all of the activities of the staff at the agency locations
described above for the times and occurrences as hereafter
presented. References to you, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., include
persons acting under your direct supervision and control at the
agencies described herein.
8. You, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., are also listed as a
signor on the Sunshine State agency accounts at both SouthTrust
Bank and Florida Telco Credit Union.
COUNT I
The above General Allegations numbered one through
eight are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by
reference.
~ 10. On or about October 10, 1997, you, DONALD WILLIAM SABO,
JR., were notified that the Department desired to conduct an
examination of records at all three of your agency locations as
described above.
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11. In response to this notification, and with the willful
and specific purpose of preventing Department investigators from
obtain access to business records required to be kept by the
Florida Insurance Code, you, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, UR., directed
one or more of your employees to pull and destroy insurance file
records.
12. These records included insureds’ and lienholders’
copies of declaration pages, insurance binders and quote sheets
showing $25.00 agency fees, copies of agency checks to the
insurers demonstrating the amount of money sent to the insurers,
and copies of the separate checks that insureds had presented for
towing and rental insurance products.
IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR.,
have violated or are accountable under the following provisions
of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of
Insurance which constitute grounds for the suspension or
revocation of your licenses and appointments as a life and health
insurance agent:
(a) The licensee shall keep and make available to the
department books, accounts, and records as will enable the
department to determine whether such licensee is complying with
the provisions of this code. Every licensee shall preserve
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books, accounts, and records pertaining to a premium payment for
at least 3 years after payment. [Section 626.561(2), Florida
Statutes!
(b) Every person being examined or investigated, and its
officers, attorneys, employees, agents, and representatives,
shall make freely available to the department or its examiners
or investigators the accounts, records, documents, files,
information, assets, and matters in their possession or control
relating to the subject of the examination or investigation.
[Section 624.318(2), Florida Statutes];
(c) Any individual who willfully obstructs the department
or its examiner in the examinations or investigations authorized
by this part is guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction
shall be punished as provided in section 624.15, Florida
Statutes. [Section 624.318(6), Florida Statutes];
(d) Every agent transacting any insurance policy must
maintain in his or her office, or have readily accessible by
electronic or photographic means, such records of policies
transacted by him or her as to enable the policyholders and
department to obtain all necessary information, including daily
reports, applications, change endorsements, or documents signed
or initialed by the insured concerning such policies. [Section
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626.748, Florida Statutes] ;
(e) Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to
engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7),
Florida Statutes] ;
(£) Fraudulent or dishonest practices in the conduct of
business under the license or permit. [Section 626.611(9),
Florida Statutes];
(g) Willful failure to comply with, or willful violation
of, any proper order or rule of the department or willful
violation of any provision of this code. [Section 626.611(13),
Florida Statutes];
(h) Violation of any provision of this code or of any other
law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of
dealing under the license ox permit. [Section 626.621(2),
Florida Statutes] ;
(i) In the conduct of business under the license or permit,
‘engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or
~ deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under part X of ‘this
chapter, or having otherwise shown himself to be a source of
injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida
Statutes].
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COUNT IT
13. Paragraphs one through eight are realleged and
incorporated herein by reference.
14. puring January and February, 1997, Jerlyn Evans, went
to the Sunshine Insurance agency location on Beach Boulevard and
consulted with Tinnia Merrle (“Tina”) Tufegdzic, an employee of
that agency, regarding the purchase of automobile insurance.
15. Although Ms. Tufegdzic was not, for the time periods
and occurrences alleged herein, a licensed insurance agent, with
the knowledge and consent of you, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., Ms.
Tufegdzic regularly, and not simply on an incidental basis, gave
quotes over the telephone, took insurance applications, explained
coverages, issued receipts, inspected vehicles, completed premium
finance agreements, cut drafts, wrote agency checks and accepted
premiums for insurance coverage at Sunshine State.
16. Ms. Evans requested full insurance coverage for her
vehicle, specifically requesting towing and rental insurance.
Ms. Tufegdzic falsely advised Ms. Evans that in order for her
(Evans) to obtain towing and rental insurance coverage, she would
first have to have an accident.
17. You, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., knowing that Ms.
Tufegdzic was unlicensed to act as an insurance agent, authorized
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her to give such insurance quotations over the telephone, take
applications, explain coverages, accept premium payments and
otherwise manage the Sunshine State office on University
Boulevard from December, 1996 to February, 1997.
18. Ms. Evans purchased an automobile insurance policy,
through the assistance of Ms. Tufegdzic, making a cash down
payment of $239.00 on January 30, 1997. However, the down
payment shown on the premium finance contract furnished by
Gemstone Premium Finance was only $229.00, leaving $10.00 that
was not accounted for in the transaction. An examination of
extant agency records provides no explanation for the $10.00
discrepancy.
IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR.,
have violated or are accountable under the following provisions
of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of
Insurance which constitute grounds for the suspension or
revocation of your insurance licenses:
(a) Knowingly collecting as a premium or charge for
insurance any sum in excess of or less than the premium or charge
applicable to such insurance, in accordance with the applicable
classifications and rates as filed with and approved by the
department, and as specified in the policy; or, in cases when
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classifications, premiums, or rates are not required by this code
to be filed and approved, premiums and charges in excess of or
less than those specified in the policy and as fixed by the
insurer. [Section 626.9541(1) (o)2., Florida Statutes (1997);
(b) Willful misrepresentation of any insurance policy or
annuity contract or willful deception with regard to any such
policy or contract, done either in person or by any form of
dissemination of information or advertising. [Section
626.611(5), Florida Statutes];
(c) No person shall be, act as, or advertise or hold
himself or herself out to be an insurance agent, customer
representative, solicitor, or adjuster unless he or she is
currently licensed and appointed. No agent, customer
representative, or solicitor shall solicit or otherwise transact
as agent, customer representative, or solicitor, or represent or
hold himself or herself out to be an agent, customer
representative, or solicitor as to, any kind or kinds or
insurance as to which he or she is not then licensed and
appointed. [Subsections 626.112 (l)and (2), Florida Statutes];
(ad) Knowingly aiding, assisting, procuring, advising, or
abetting any person in the violation of or to violate a provision
of the insurance code or any order or rule of the Department.
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[Subsection 626.621(12), Florida Statutes] ;
(e)
allowable
The following types of conduct by unlicensed staff are
as long as they are done only on a basis “incidental”
to the employee's main duties:
(1)
(£)
personnel.
(1)
Taking an application for insurance in the agent’s
office, as set forth in rule 4-222.020, for a person
who has called or come into the office.
Giving quotes in the agent’s office, as set out in
rule 4-222.020, to persons calling or coming into the
office and asking for a quote.
Receiving premium at the agent’s office. Receiving
premium does not include the handling of premium by
mailroom personnel or other unlicensed personnel who
handle mail. [Rule 4-222.050, Florida Administrative
Code.];
The following actions are never allowable by unlicensed
Comparing insurance products; advising as to insurance
needs or insurance matters; or interpreting policies
or coverages.
Binding new, additional, or replacement coverage for
new or existing customers; or binding coverage on or
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recording additional property under existing policies.
(3) Soliciting the sale of insurance by telephone, in
person, or by other communication. However, the
unlicensed person may telephone persons to set
appointments for licensed and appointed agents,
customer representatives, or solicitors, or to obtain
basic policy information as to existing insurance
coverage. The unlicensed person may not engage in a
substantive discussion of insurance products. [Rule 4-
222.060, Florida Administrative Code];
(g) Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to
engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7),
Florida Statutes];
(h) Fraudulent or dishonest practices in the conduct of
business under the license or permit. (Section 626.611(9),
Florida Statutes] ;
(i) Willful failure to comply with, or willful violation
of, any proper order or rule of the department or willful
violation of any provision of this code. [Section 626.611(13),
Florida Statutes];
(j) Violation of any provision of this code or of any other
law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of
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dealing under the license or permit. [Section 626.621(2),
Florida Statutes] ;
(k) Violation of any lawful order or rule of the
department. [Section 626.€21(3), Florida Statutes];
(1) In the conduct of business under the license or permit,
engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or
deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under part X of this
chapter, or having otherwise shown himself to be a source of
injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida
Statutes];
(m) No person shall engage in this state in any trade
practice which is defined in this part as, or determined pursuant
to s. 626.951 or s. 626.9561 to be, an unfair method of
competition or an unfair or deceptive act or practice involving
the business of insurance. {Section 626.9521, Florida Statutes];
(n) Knowingly making, issuing, circulating, or causing to
“be made, issued, or circulated, any estimate, illustration,
circular, statement, sales presentation, omission, or comparison,
which misrepresents the benefits, advantages, conditions, or
terms of any insurance policy. [Section 626.9541(1) (a)1l.,
Florida Statutes] ;
(o) Knowingly making, publishing, disseminating,
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circulating, or placing before the public, or causing, directly
or indirectly, to be made, published, disseminated, circulated,
or placed before the public:
1. In a newspaper, magazine, or other publication,
2. In the form of a notice, circular, pamphlet, letter, or
poster,
3. Over any radio or television station, or
4. In any other way placing before the public an
advertisement, announcement, or statement containing any
assertion, representation, or statement with respect to the
business of insurance, which is untrue, deceptive, or misleading.
[Section 626.9541(1) (b), Florida Statutes];
(p) False statements and entries. -
1. Knowingly:
a. Filing with any supervisory or other public
official,
b. Making, publishing, disseminating, circulating,
c. Delivering to any person,
d. Placing before the public,
e. Causing, directly or indirectly, to be made,
published, disseminated, circulated, delivered to any person, or
placed before the public, any false material statement. [Section
13
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626.9541(1) (e)1., Florida Statutes];
(q) Knowingly making any misleading representations or
incomplete or fraudulent comparisons or fraudulent material
omissions of or with respect to any insurance policies or
insurers for the purpose of inducing, or tending to induce, any
person to lapse, forfeit, surrender, terminate, retain, pledge,
assign, borrow on, or convert any insurance policy or to take out
a policy of insurance in another insurer. [Section
626.9541(1) (1), Florida Statutes];
(xr) No person shall be, act as, or advertise or hold
himself or herself out to be an insurance agent, customer
representative, solicitor, or adjuster unless he or she is
currently licensed and appointed. [Section 626.112(1), Florida
Statutes] .
COUNT III
through eight are rea teged and
incorporated herein by reference.
20. During December, 1996, ‘Tara | Lyn Martin, went to the
Sunshine state agency location and stated chat she wanted to
purchase the minimum amount of insurance coverage allowed by law.
She specifically ated that she d 1 “not want to purchase any
towing serv lan because ‘her husband owned : a ‘towing | service.
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She was unaware that she had been charged for any such motor
vehicle service as she was handed several papers collectively and
told where to sign without giving any informed consent to the
purchase of a motor vehicle towing service.
21. You, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., as a licensee, corporate
officer, and signer on the agency’s bank accounts, either knew or
should have known that a cash down payment from Tara Lyn Martin
in the amount of $125.00 on December 11, 1996 was accepted by the
agency, but that the down payment shown on the premium finance
contract furnished by Gemstone Premium Finance was only $85.00,
leaving $40.00 that was not accounted for in the transaction.
22. You, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., knew or should have
known that it was a routine business practice in all three
Sunshine State locations to charge such fees in addition to those
filed and approved by the insurance companies for which you were
appointed and you knew or should have known that you had a
fiduciary responsibility to the insurance clients at each of the
above-described agency locations and yet you aided and abetted in
the charging of such unauthorized agency fees.
23. In addition, an examination of extant agency records
shows that Tara Lyn Martin was charged $30.00 for a WorldWide
Travel Service, Inc. travel club, for the unwanted towing
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service, and was also charged an additional $10.00. There is no
explanation for the “30+10” notation shown as “premium” on the
travel plan contract and your records do not explain how this
additional $10.00 fee was applied.
IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR.,
have violated or are accountable under the following provisions
of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of
Insurance which constitute grounds for the suspension or
revocation of your licenses and appointments as a life and health
insurance agent:
(a) Any general lines insurance agent who is an officer,
director, or stockholder of an incorporated general lines
insurance agency shall remain personally and fully liable and
accountable for any wrongful acts, misconduct or violations of
any provisions of this code committed by such licensee or by any
person under his or her direct supervision and control while
acting on behalf of the corporation. [Section 626.734, Florida
(>) knowingly collect ing as a premium or charge for
insurance any sum in excess of or less than the premium or charge
applicable to such insurance, in accordance with the applicable
classifications and rates as filed with and approved by the
16
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department, and as specified in the policy; or, in cases when
classifications, premiums, or rates are not required by this code
to be filed and approved, premiums and charges in excess of or
less than those specified in the policy and as fixed by the
insurer. [Section 626.9541(1) (o)2., Florida Statutes (1997);
(c) Charged an insurance applicant for a specific ancillary
coverage or product, in addition to the cost of the motor vehicle
insurance coverage applied for, without the informed consent of
the applicant. [Section 626.9541(1) (z)3., Florida Statutes]
(d) Willful misrepresentation of any insurance policy or
annuity, contract or willful deception with regard to any such
policy or contract, done either in person or by any form of
dissemination of information or advertising. [Section
626.611(5), Florida Statutes] ;
(e) Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to
engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7),
Florida Statutes];
_(£)
Fraudulent or dishonest practices in the conduct of
‘business under the license or permit. [Section 626.611(9),
Florida Statutes];
(g) Willful failure to comply with, or willful violation
of, any proper order or rule of the department, or willful
17
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“competition or an unfair
violation of any provision of this code. [Section 626.611(13),
Florida Statutes] ;
(h) Violation of any provision of this code or of any other
law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of
*
dealing under the license or permit. [Section 626.621(2),
Florida Statutes];
(i) Violation of any lawful order or rule of the
department. [Section 626.621(3), Florida Statutes];
(j) In the conduct of business under the license or permit,
engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or
deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under part X of this
chapter, or having otherwise shown himself to be a source of
injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida
Statutes] ;
(k) No person shall engage in this state in any trade
practice which is defined in this part as, or determined pursuant
snes ey
626 9561 to be, an unfair method of
‘or deceptive act or practice involving
the business of insurance. [section 626.9521, Florida Statutes];
q) knowingly making, issuing, circulating, or causing to
be made, issued, or circulated, any estimate, illustration,
circular, statement, sales presentation, omission, or comparison,
18
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which misrepresents the benefits, advantages, conditions, or
terms of any insurance policy. [Section 626.9541(1) (a)l.,
Florida Statutes] ;
(m) Knowingly making, publishing, disseminating,
circulating, or placing before the public, or causing, directly
or indirectly, to be made, published, disseminated, circulated,
or placed before the public:
1. In a newspaper, magazine, or other publication,
2. In the form of a notice, circular, pamphlet, letter, or
poster,
3. Over any radio or television station, or
4. In any other way placing before the public an
advertisement, announcement, or statement containing any
assertion, representation, or statement with respect to the
business of insurance, which is untrue, deceptive, or misleading.
[section 626.9541(1) (b), Florida Statutes] ;
(n) False statements and entries. -
1. Knowingly:
a. Filing with any supervisory or other public
official,
~ b. Making, publishing, disseminating, circulating,
@. Belivering ts any person, : | |
19
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dad. Placing before the public,
@. Causing, directly or indirectly, to be made,
published, disseminated, circulated, delivered to any person, or
placed before the public, any false material statement. {Section
626.9541(1) (e)1., Florida Statutes];
(o) Knowingly making any misleading representations or
incomplete or fraudulent comparisons or fraudulent material
omissions of or with respect to any insurance policies or
insurers for the purpose of inducing, or tending to induce, any
person to lapse, forfeit, surrender, terminate, retain, pledge,
assign, borrow on, or convert any insurance policy or to take out
a policy of insurance in another insurer. {Section
626.9541(1) (1), Florida Statutes] ;
(p) Sliding by either:
1. Representing to the applicant that a specific
_fnctllary coverage | or "Product is required by law
in ‘conjunction with the purchase: of motor vehicle.
- insurance when such coverage or product is not
required;
2. Representing to the applicant that a specific
ancillary coverage or product is included in the
gets
motor v vehicle policy applied for without an
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additional charge when such charge is required; or
3. Charging an applicant for a specific ancillary
coverage or product, in addition to the cost of
the motor vehicle insurance coverage applied for,
without the informed consent of the applicant.
{Subsection 626.9541(1) (z), Florida Statutes].
COUNT _IV
24. Paragraphs one through eight are realleged and
incorporated herein by reference.
25. During January, 1998, Eugene Mobley, Jr., went to the
Sunshine State agency location on Beach Boulevard with the
intention of purchasing only automobile insurance. A woman
working at the agency completed the application and Mr. Mobley
was then “given a bunch of papers to sign and did not realize
that towing was included.”
26. Mr. Mobley later discovered that he had been charged
$65.00 for a towing service that was not offered nor explained to
him. He would not have knowingly purchased such a service
because the new Chevy S-10 truck that he had just purchased, had
a warranty which included towing.
27. Mr. Mobley was also surprised to discover that the
insurance policy he purchased had a $2,000 PIP deductible. Mr.
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Mobley has stated that “the $2,000 PIP deductible was given to me
without my knowledge.” When Mr. Mobley later had the PIP
deductible changed to a zero deductible in accordance with his
original intention, the U.S. Security Insurance Company billed
Mr. Mobley an additional $64.00. Sunshine State failed to submit
all the underwriting requirements for the deductible change ina
timely fashion with the result that Mr. Mobley’s insurance
coverage was cancelled on or about April 13, 1998.
28. You, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., as a licensee, corporate
officer, and signer on the agency’s bank accounts, either knew or
should have known of the above-described activities at the
Sunshine State agency.
IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR.,
have violated or are accountable under the following provisions
of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of
Insurance which constitute grounds for the suspension or
revocation of your licenses and appointments as a life and health
insurance agent:
(a) Any general lines insurance agent who is an officer,
director, or stockholder of an incorporated general lines
insurance agency shall remain personally and fully liable and
accountable for any wrongful acts, misconduct or violations of
22
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any provisions of this code committed by such licensee or by any
person under his or her direct supervision and control while
acting on behalf of the corporation. [Section 626.734, Florida
Statutes];
(b) Knowingly collecting as a premium or charge for
insurance any sum in excess of or less than the premium or charge
applicable to such insurance, in accordance with the applicable
classifications and rates as filed with and approved by the
department, and as specified in the policy; or, in cases when
classifications, premiums, or rates are not required by this code
to be filed and approved, premiums and charges in excess of or
less than those specified in the policy and as fixed by the
insurer. [Section 626.9541(1)(o)2., Florida Statutes (1997);
(c) Charged an insurance applicant for a specific ancillary
coverage or product, in addition to the cost of the motor vehicle
insurance coverage applied for, without the informed consent of
the applicant. [Section 626.9541(1) (z)3., Florida Statutes]
(d) Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to
engage in the business of insurance. [section 626.611(7),
Florida Statutes];
(e) Fraudulent or dishonest practices in the conduct of
business under the license or permit. [Section 626.611(9),
23
Florida Statutes];
(£) Willful failure to comply with, or willful violation
of, any proper order or rule of the department or willful
violation of any provision of this code. [Section 626.611(13),
Florida Statutes] ; °
(g) Violation of any provision of this code or of any other
law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of
dealing under the license or permit. [Section 626.621(2),
Florida Statutes];
(h) Violation of any lawful order or rule of the
department. [Section 626.621(3), Florida Statutes];
(i) In the conduct of business under the license or permit,
engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or
deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under part X of this
chapter, or having otherwise shown himself to be a source of
injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida
Statutes] ;
(j) No person shall engage in this state in any trade
practice which is defined in this part as, or determined pursuant
to s. 626.951 or s. 626.9561 to be, an unfair method of
competition or an unfair or deceptive act or practice involving
the business of insurance. [Section 626.9521, Florida Statutes] ;
24
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(k) Knowingly making, issuing, circulating, or causing to
be made, issued, or circulated, any estimate, illustration,
circular, statement, sales presentation, omission, or comparison,
which misrepresents the benefits, advantages, conditions, or
terms of any insurance policy. {Section 626.9541(1) (a)1.,
Florida Statutes];
(1) Knowingly making, publishing, disseminating,
circulating, or placing before the public, or causing, directly
or indirectly, to be made, published, disseminated, circulated,
or placed before the public:
1. In a newspaper, magazine, or other publication,
2. In the form of a notice, circular, pamphlet, letter, or
poster,
3. Over any radio or television station, or
4. In any other way placing before the public an
advertisement, announcement, or statement containing any
desertion, representation, or statement with respect to the
business of insurance, which is untrue, deceptive, or misleading.
[Section 626.9541(1) (b), Florida Statutes] ;
(m) False statements and entries. -
“L. Rnowingly:
a. Filing with any supervisory or other public
25
!
:
4
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official,
b. Making, publishing, disseminating, circulating,
c. Delivering to any person,
da. Placing before the public,
e. Causing, directly or indirectly, to be made,
published, disseminated, circulated, delivered to any person, or
placed before the public, any false material statement. {Section
626.9541 (1) (e)1., Florida Statutes];
(n) Knowingly making any misleading representations or
incomplete or fraudulent comparisons or fraudulent material
omissions of or with respect to any insurance policies or
insurers for the purpose of inducing, or tending to induce, any
person to lapse, forfeit, surrender, terminate, retain, pledge,
assign, borrow on, or convert any insurance policy or to take out
a policy of insurance in another insurer. [Section
626.9541(1) (1), Florida Statutes];
(o) Sliding by either:
4. Represent ing to the applicant that a specific
ancillary coverage or product is required by law
in conjunction with the purchase of motor vehicle
insurance when such coverage or product is not
required;
26
i
‘
eEte em: tS
ww wd
5. Representing to the applicant that a specific
ancillary coverage or product is included in the
motor vehicle policy applied for without an
additional charge when such charge is required; or
6. Charging an applicant for a specific ancillary
coverage or product, in addition to the cost of
the motor vehicle insurance coverage applied for,
without the informed consent of the applicant.
{Subsection 626.9541(1) (z), Florida Statutes].
COUNT V
29. Paragraphs one through eight are realleged and
incorporated herein by reference.
30. On or about August 19, 1997, David L. Brown, went to
the Sunshine State agency location and purchased automobile
insurance, making a premium down payment of $118.00. There is an
unexplained “10$ agency fee” charge shown on the Receipt and
Binder Certificate. The Sunshine state quote sheet shows an
unexplained “opt 10” and total premium of $546.00
31. However, the insurance application indicates the total
premium was actually $536.00 and the ETI Financial Corporation
contract also shows a total premium of only $536.00 and a down
payment of $108.00, leaving $10.00 that was not accounted for in
27
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the transaction.
32. An examination of extant agency records reveals nothing
that will account for the unexplained $10.00 discrepancy.
33. You, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, UR., as a licensee, corporate
officer, and signer on the agency’s bank accounts, either knew or
should have known of the above-described activities at the
Sunshine State agency.
IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JUR.,
‘have violated or are accountable under the following provisions
of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of
Insurance which constitute grounds for the suspension or
revocation of your licenses and appointments as a life and health
insurance agent:
(a) Any general lines insurance agent who is an officer,
director, or stockholder of an incorporated general lines
insurance agency shall remain personally and fully” liable and
accountable for any wrongful | acts, misconduct or violations of |
“any: provisions of this. ‘code ‘committed by ‘such licensee or ‘by any
person ‘under his or her “Girect 3 supervision and control while
acting ¢ on behalf of the corporation. [Section 626.734, Florida
statutes] ; |
(b) Knowingly collecting as a premium or charge for
28
Sooner meme
vw J
insurance any sum in excess of or less than the premium or charge
applicable to such insurance, in accordance with the applicable
classifications and rates as filed with and approved by the
department, and as specified in the policy; or, in cases when
classifications, premiums, or rates are not required by this code
to be filed and approved, premiums and charges in excess of or
less than those specified in the policy and as fixed by the
insurer. [Section 626.9541(1) (o)2., Florida Statutes (1997);
(c) Willful misrepresentation of any insurance policy or
annuity contract or willful deception with regard to any such
policy or contract, done either in person or by any form of
dissemination of information or advertising. [Section
626.611(5), Florida Statutes];
(d) Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to
“engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7),
Florida Statutes];
(e) “Fraudulent or dishonest practices in the conduct of
SS APE age ~
i be ES business under the License or "permit. [Section 626 .611(9),
Shelia
BENG ty ma
Florida statutes! ;
(£) Willful failure to: comply with, OF, willful violation |
a
of, any Prop xr order or “rule of th departnent or Wl Aiful :
violation of any provision of this code. [Section 626.611 (23),
29
RRR: ES eC Rp eR eis
wv NY
Florida Statutes];
(g) Violation of any provision of this code or of any other
law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of
dealing under the license or permit. [Section 626.621(2),
Florida Statutes] ; .
(h) Violation of any lawful order or rule of the
department. [Section 626.621(3), Florida Statutes] ;
(i) In the conduct of business under the license or permit,
engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or
deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under part X of this
chapter, or having otherwise shown himself to be a source of
injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida
Statutes] ;
(j) No person shall engage in this state in any trade
practice which is defined in this part as, or determined pursuant
to s. 626.951 ors. 626.9561 to be, an unfair method of
» competition or an unfair or deceptive act or practice involving
the business of insurance. {Section 626.9521, Florida Statutes] ;
(ke) Knowingly making, issuing, circulating, or Pere to
be made, issued, or circulated, any estimate, illustration,
circular, statement, sales presentation, omission, or comparison,
which misrepresents the benefits, advantages, conditions, or
30
re
t
'
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terms of any insurance policy. [Section 626.9541 (1) (a)1.,
Florida Statutes];
(1) Knowingly making, publishing, disseminating,
circulating, or placing before the public, or causing, directly
or indirectly, to be made, published, disseminated, circulated,
or placed before the public:
1. In a newspaper, magazine, or other publication,
2. In the form of a notice, circular, pamphlet, letter, or
poster,
3. Over any radio or television station, or
4. In any other way placing before the public an
advertisement, announcement, or statement containing any
assertion, representation, or statement with respect to the
business of insurance, which is untrue, deceptive, or misleading.
[Section 626.9541(1) (b), Florida Statutes] ;
(m) False statements and entries. -
1. Knowingly: |
a. Filing with any supervisory or other public
official, —
b. Making, publishing, disseminating, circulating,
ivering to any person;
STE eyo
ve lc fttiee
ww
e. Causing, directly or indirectly, to be made,
published, disseminated, circulated, delivered to any person, or
placed before the public, any false material statement. [Section
626.9541 (1) (e)1., Florida Statutes];
(n) Knowingly making any misleading representations or
incomplete or fraudulent comparisons or fraudulent material
omissions of or with respect to any insurance policies or
insurers for the purpose of inducing, or tending to induce, any
person to lapse, forfeit, surrender, terminate, rétain, pledge,
assign, borrow on, or convert any insurance policy or to take out -
a policy of insurance in another insurer. [Section
626.9541(1) (1), Florida Statutes].
COUNT VI
34. Paragraphs one through eight are realleged and
incorporated herein by reference.
35. Onor about April 26, 1997, _ dimmy L, ‘Daniel, went to ;
the Sunshine State agency location and purchased automobile
: insurance, ‘making ¢ a ‘premium down payment of $100. 00.
36. However, a copy of the premium finance agreement
contract shows that only $78.00 was applied toward the premium
down payment, thus leaving $22.00 that was not acc
the transaction.
32
+ Aa A ei ae Be
37. An examination of extant agency records reveals nothing
that will account for the unexplained $22.00 discrepancy.
38. You, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., as a licensee, corporate
officer, and signer on the agency’s bank accounts, either knew or
should have known of the above-described activities at the
Sunshine State agency.
IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, UR.,
have violated or are accountable under the following provisions
of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of
Insurance which constitute grounds for the suspension or
revocation of your licenses and appointments as a life and health
insurance agent:
(a) Any general lines insurance agent who is an officer,
director, or stockholder of an incorporated general lines
insurance agency shall remain personally and fully liable and
accountable for any wrongful acts, misconduct or violations of
any provisions of this code committed | by such licensee or by any
person under his or her direct supervision and control while
acting | on behalf of ‘the corporation. [section 626.734, Florida
Statutes] ;
(b) Knowingly collecting as a premium or charge for
insurance any sum in excess of or less than the premium or charge
33
SoMa 3 oo Rea ae he cca teanm mE
ececmel
comer wt ee
oR Rabe
aii aitsatatiaantiaiaseniabaaiianan
nt pC EE I RU I A sete ee ace A
applicable to such insurance, in accordance with the applicable
classifications and rates as filed with and approved by the
department, and as specified in the policy; or, in cases when
classifications, premiums, or rates are not required by this code
to be filed and approved, premiums and charges in excess of or
less than those specified in the policy and as fixed by the
insurer. [Section 626.9541(1) (o)2., Florida Statutes (1997);
(c) Willful misrepresentation of any insurance policy or
annuity contract or willful deception with regard to any such
policy or contract, done either in person or by any form of
dissemination of information or advertising. [Section
626.611(5), Florida Statutes];
(d) Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to
engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7),
Florida Statutes];
(e) Fraudulent or dishonest practices in the conduct of
business under the license or permit. [Section 626.611(9),
Florida Statutes];
~(£) Willful failure to comply with, or willful violation
of, any proper order or rule of the department or willful
violation of any provision of this code. [Section 626.611(13),
Florida Statutes];
34
Pee
=] a
(g) Violation of any provision of this code or of any other
law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of
dealing under the license or permit. [Section 626.621(2),
Florida Statutes] ;
(h) Violation of any lawful order or rule of the
department. [Section 626.621(3), Florida Statutes];
(i) In the conduct of business under the license or permit,
engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or
deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under part X of this
chapter, or having otherwise shown himself to be a source of
injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida
Statutes];
(j) No person shall engage in this state in any trade
practice which is defined in this part as, or determined pursuant
to s. 626.951 or s. 636.9861 to be, an unfair method of .
competition or an unfair or deceptive act or practice involving
the business of “insurance. [Section 626. 9521, “Florida Statutes! ;
(k) Knowingly making, issuing, circulating, or causing to
be made, issued, or circulated, any estimate, illustration,
circular, statement, sales presentation, omission, or comparison,
t
t
which misrepresents the benefits, advantages, conditions, or
terms of any insurance policy. [Section 626.9541 (1) (a)1.,
35
eerie:
SE eR ie oe
uw are"
Florida Statutes] ;
(1) Knowingly making, publishing, disseminating,
circulating, or placing before the public, or causing, directly
or indirectly, to be made, published, disseminated, circulated,
or placed before the public:
1. %In a newspaper, magazine, or other publication,
2. In the form of a notice, circular, pamphlet, letter, or
poster,
3. Over any radio or television station, or
4. In any other way placing before the public an
advertisement, announcement, or statement containing any
assertion, representation, or statement with respect to the
business of insurance, which is untrue, deceptive, or misleading.
[Section 626.9541(1) (b), Florida Statutes] ;
{(m) False statements and entries. -
1. Knowingly:
a. Filing with any supervisory or other public
official,
b. Making, publishing, disseminating, circulating,
“@.°" Delivering to any person,
d. Placing before the public, .
e. Causing, directly or indirectly, to be made,
36
prow e ore
ee
er
i hee
vw Ww
published, disseminated, circulated, delivered to any person, or
placed before the public, any false material statement. [Section
626.9541(1) (e)1., Florida Statutes];
(n) Knowingly making any misleading representations or
incomplete or fraudulent comparisons or fraudulent material
omissions of or with respect to any insurance policies or
insurers for the purpose of inducing, or tending to induce, any
person to lapse, forfeit, surrender, terminate, retain, pledge,
assign, borrow on, or convert any insurance policy or to take out
a policy of insurance in another insurer. [Section
626.9541(1) (1), Florida Statutes].
COUNT VII
39. Paragraphs one through eight are realleged and
incorporated herein by reference.
40. On or about May 1, 1997, Jackolyn Meade, went to the
Sunshine State agency location and purchased automobile
insurance, making a premium down payment of $110.00.
al. However, a copy of the quote sheet shows an “OPT 10”
included in the premium quotation. Documents received from the
Atlas Specialty Underwriters, Inc. (for Connecticut Indemnity |
Insurance Company) show a down payment of only $100.00 as being
applied to the actual purchase of insurance, thus leaving $10.00
37
oe
i
'
'
;
nate
that was not accounted for in the transaction.
42. An examination of extant agency records reveals nothing
that will account for the unexplained $10.00 discrepancy.
43. You, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., as a licensee, corporate
*
officer, and signer on the agency’s bank accounts, either knew or
should have known of the above-described activities at the
Sunshine State agency.
IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, UJR.,
have violated or are accountable under the following provisions
of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of
Insurance which constitute grounds for the suspension or
revocation of your licenses and appointments as a life and health
insurance agent:
(a) Any general lines insurance agent who is an officer,
director, or stockholder of an incorporated general lines
insurance agency shall remain personally and fully liable and
accountable for any wrongful acts, misconduct or violations of
any provisions of this code committed by such licensee or by any
person under his or her direct supervision and control while
acting on behalf of the corporation. [Section 626.734, Florida
Statutes] ;
{b) Knowingly collecting as a premium or charge for
38
Be
tc RR URE SS
w | wd
insurance any sum in excess of or less than the premium or charge
applicable to such insurance, in accordance with the applicable
classifications and rates as filed with and approved by the
department, and as specified in the policy; or, in cases when
x
classifications, premiums, or rates are not required by this code
to be filed and approved, premiums and charges in excess of or
less than those specified in the policy and as fixed by the
insurer. (Section 626.9541(1) (o)2., Florida Statutes (1997);
(c) Willful misrepresentation of any insurance policy or
annuity contract or willful deception with regard to any such
policy or contract, done either in person or by any form of
dissemination of information or advertising. [Section
626.611(5), Florida Statutes];
(d) Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to
engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7),
Florida Statutes];
so Gb RGR Tey Pais Uo ates ak GOS Rie RSE AE OS OP ia a,
(e) Fraudulent or dishonest practices in the conduct of
business under the license or permit. [Section 626.611(9), a
Florida statutes); — |
(£) Willful failure to comply with, or willful violation
of, any proper order or rule of the department or willful
violation of any provision of this code. [Section 626.611(13),
39
oer mee
RR il Ree =
“the Business of insurance. {section 626. 9521, Florida Statutes];
Ww . +]
Florida Statutes];
{g) Violation of any provision of this code or of any other
law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of
dealing under the license or permit. [Section 626.621(2),
Florida Statutes];
(h) Violation of any lawful order or rule of the
department. [Section 626.621(3), Florida Statutes];
(i) In the conduct of business under the license or permit, ,
engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or
deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under part X of this
chapter, or having otherwise shown himself to be a source of
injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida
Statutes];
(3) No person shall engage in this state in any trade
practice which is defined in this part as, or determined pursuant
to s. 626.951 or s. 626.9561 to be, an unfair method of
competition or an unfair or deceptive act or practice involving
ve ewes
(k) knowingly making, issuing, circulating, or causing to
be made, issued, or circulated, any estimate, illustration,
circular, statement, sales presentation, omission, or comparison
which misrepresents the benefits, advantages, conditions, or
coe meepore
4g"
ob ee
1 ies abe
wv ~~)
terms of any insurance policy. [Section 626.9541(1) (a)l.,
Florida Statutes] ;
(1) Knowingly making, publishing, disseminating,
circulating, or placing before the public, or causing, directly
or indirectly, to be made, published, disseminated, circulated,
or placed before the public:
1. In a newspaper, magazine, or other publication,
2. In the form of a notice, circular, pamphlet, letter, or
poster,
3. Over any radio or television station, or '
4. In any other way placing before the public an
advertisement, announcement, or statement containing any
assertion, representation, or statement with respect to the
business of insurance, which is untrue, deceptive, or misleading.
[Section 626.9541(1) (b), Florida Statutes] ;
(m) False statements and entries. -
a. Filing with any supervisory or other public
official, | .
b. Making, publishing, disseminating, circulating,
c. Delivering to any person,
d. Placing before the public,
er
41
mecrrpee rs
she apmaallele se:
lw J
e. Causing, directly or indirectly, to be made,
published, disseminated, circulated, delivered to any person, or
placed before the public, any false material statement. [Section
626.9541(1) (e)1., Florida Statutes];
(n) Knowingly making any misleading representations or
incomplete or fraudulent comparisons or fraudulent material
omissions of or with respect to any insurance policies or
insurers for the purpose of inducing, or tending to induce, any
person to lapse, forfeit, surrender, terminate, retain, pledge,
assign, borrow on, or convert any insurance policy or to take out
a policy of insurance in another insurer. [Section
626.9541(1) (1), Florida statutes) .
COUNT VIII
44, Paragraphs one through sight and ten through twelve are
realleged and incorporated herein by. reference.
45. During the Department’s attempt to inspect records at
all three agency locations as described above, records were not
available to allow for the sampling of terminated policies which
resulted in refunds due to consumers. In order to complete the
sampling process, records were requested of and obtained from
premium finance companies utilized by Sunshine State, Sunshine >
Services and Sunshine Casualty.
42
abe.
fisdbshadiil
automobile i insurance policy purchased in 1996 ‘because he ‘had
vw y)
46. Contact letters were sent to individual consumers from
the samples provided by the premium finance companies to verify
whether refunds due the consumers had actually been received by
them.
47. Because of your corporate business relationships and
banking responsibilities with respect to each of the three
agencies as above described, you, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., along
with your mother, Madalyn A. Sabo and your father, Donald William
Sabo, also corporate officers and signers on the agencies’ bank
accounts, had a fiduciary duty to report, account for, and refund
monies when such were due insurance consumers at each of the
three agency locations.
48. You, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, UR., failed to refund $51.71
due Jerlyn Evans after she notified Sunshine State to cancel her
automobile insurance policy purchased in February, 1997, because
her automobile had been totaled in an accident in July, 1997.
49. You, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., failed to refund $46.00
due David Lewis after he notified Sunshine State to cancel his
obtained insurance through another agency, Insurance World.
50. You, DONALD WILLTAM SABO, JR., failed to refund $152. 00°
due Sheila Altman, after she notified Sunshine ‘State that she was
43
|!
F
E
:
ws ww
due refunds because of changes she had made during the one and
one-half years of automobile insurance coverage she had through
that agency.
. 51. You, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., failed to refund $41.25
to Carol and Angela Orr, husband and wife, after they cancelled
their insurance with Sunshine State in June, 1997 because they
experienced a premium increase with no explanation.
52. You, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JUR., failed to refund $83.75
to Benjamin Lane, after he canceled his insurance when his
automobile failed to pass an inspection.
53. You, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., failed to refund $50.54
to Melissa Crews in August, 1997, after she canceled her
automobile insurance on her Hyundai because it was not driveable
_ and purchased insurance through Sunshine State on her new
Oldsmobile. She received neither a credit for the cancellation,
nor a credit toward the purchase of insurance on the Oldsmobile.
54 You, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, “OR. failed to refund $32. 30
“due t to Melvine Buxton in 1 June, 1997, « or otherwise credit her
account her Sunshine State account, after she made changes in her
automobile " ingurance coverage which » warranted such refund ox
credit. |
55. You, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., failed to refund $30.17
44
cp ewe gene pee oper
ve
OE:
ww Ws
due to Yolanda Wade after she cancelled her automobile coverage
through Sunshine State in 1997 because of an unpaid claim.
56. You, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., failed to refund $204.55
due to Stevey L. Barnes after he cancelled his policy with
Sunshine State because he had previously asked for towing
coverage and did not receive it.
57. You, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., failed to refund $59.03
due to Tammy Clifton after she received a notice in October, 1996
that her policy obtained through Sunshine State was being
cancelled.
IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR.,
have violated or are accountable under the following provisions
of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of
Insurance which constitute grounds for the suspension or
revocation of your licenses and appointments as a life and health
insurance agent:
(a) any general 1: Lines insurance: agent wi who is an officer,
director, or stockholder of an incorporated general Lines .
insurance agency shall remain personally and fully liable and
accountable for any wrongful acts, misconduct or violations of
any provisions of this code committed by such licensee or by any
person under ‘his or her direct supervision and control while
45
Mgr eee cee
ns nnn a RS A OR HA eerste A
ca) ee
6 atime: aii tere
wd ~]
acting on behalf of the corporation. [Section 626.734, Florida
Statutes];
(b) All premiums, return premiums, or other funds belonging
to insurers or others received by an agent, solicitor, or
adjuster in transactions under his license shall be trust funds
so received by the licensee in a fiduciary capacity; and the
licensee in the applicable regular course of business shall
account for and pay the same to the insurer, insured, or other
person entitled thereto. {Section 626.561(1), Florida Statutes];
The licensee shall keep and make available to the department
books, accounts, and records as will enable the department to
determine whether such licensee is complying with the provisions
of this code. Every licensee shall preserve books, accounts, and
records pertaining to a premium payment for at least 3 years
after payment; provided, however, the preservation of records by
computer or photo raphic Zeproduct ions or records in photographic
form shall constitute ‘compliance with this requirement. All
other ‘records shall be ‘maintained in “accordance with s. 626.748.
The 3- -year requirement shall not apply to insurance binders when
no policy is ultimately - issued and no premium is collected,
[Section 626.561(2), Florida Statutes];
(c) Any agent, solicitor, or adjuster who, not being
46
th tent eR
SPORE ES
es aan pS
ed ad
lawfully entitled thereto, either temporarily or permanently
diverts or appropriates such funds or any portion thereof to his
or her own use or deprives the other person of a benefit
therefrom. [Section 626.561(3), Florida Statutes];
(d) Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to
engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7),
Florida Statutes];
(e) Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and
technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by
the license or permit. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes];
(f) Fraudulent or dishonest practices in the conduct of
business under the license or permit. (Section 626.611(9),
Florida Statutes];
(g) Misappropriation, conversion, or unlawful withholding
of moneys belonging to insurers or insureds or beneficiaries or
to others and received - in 1 conduct of business under the license.
sy eiises rn
(Section 626. 611 (10), Florida Statutes] ;
Leeson oe
(h) ‘Willful failure to comply with, or willful violation
of, any proper order or tule of the department Or willful |
violation of any provision of this code. [Section 626.611(13),
Florida atatutest;
(i) Violation of any provision of the Florida Insurance
eh
3
Ww . wd
Code or of any other law applicable to the business of insurance
in the course of dealing under the license or appointment.
[Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes];
(3) Failure or refusal, upon demand, to pay over to any
insurer he represents or has represented any money coming into
his hands belonging to the insurer. [Section 626.621(4), Florida
Statutes].
WHEREFORE, you, DONALD WILLIAM SABO JR., are hereby
notified that the Treasurer and Insurance Commissioner intends to
enter an Order suspending or revoking your licenses and
appointments as an insurance agent or to impose such penalties as
may be provided under the provisions of Sections 626.611,
626.621, 626.681, 626.691, 626.692, and 626.9521, Florida
Statutes, and under the other referenced sections of the Florida
Statutes as set out in this Administrative Complaint. You are
further notified that any order entered in this case revoking or
suspending any license or eligibility for licensure held by you
Shall also Apply. to all other licenses and eiigibility held PY
you winder the Florida Insurance Code.
NOTICE OF RIGHTS
Pursuant to Sections 120.569 and 120.57, Florida Statutes
and Rule 28-106, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), you have
48
RRR ee per cere! omen
Ww ws
the right to request a proceeding to contest this action by the
Department. You may elect a proceeding by completing the
attached Election of Rights form or filing a Petition. Your
Petition or Election of a proceeding must be in writing and must
be filed with the General Counsel acting as the Agency Clerk,
Department of Insurance. If served by U.S. Mail, the Petition or
Election should be addressed to the Florida Department of
Insurance at 612 Larson Building, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-
0333. If Express Mail or hand delivery is utilized, the Petition
or Election should be delivered to 612 Larson Building, 200 East
Gaines Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0333. The Petition or
Election must be received by, and filed in the Department within
twenty-one (21) _ days of the date of your receipt of this notice.
. YOUR FAILURE TO RESPOND TO THIS
ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINT WITHIN TWENTY-ONE
(21) DAYS WILL CONSTITUTE A WAIVER OF YOUR
RIGHT TO REQUEST A PROCEEDING ON THE MATTERS
ALLEGED HEREIN AND AN ORDER OF REVOCATION .
WILL BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU.
If a proceeding is requested and there is no dispute of fact
of Section 120. 57(2 , Florida Statutes would
apply. 1 In this regard you may. submit oral or written evidence
in opposition to the action taken by this agency or a written
statement challenging the grounds upon which the agency has
49
cere
v) ¥)
relied. While a hearing is normally not required in the absence
of a dispute in fact, if you feel that a hearing is necessary
one will be conducted in Tallahassee, Florida or by telephonic
conference call upon your request.
If you dispute material facts which are the basis for this
agency’s action you may request a formal adversarial proceeding
pursuant to Sections 120.569 and 120.57(1), Florida Statutes.
If you request this type of proceeding, the request must comply
with all of the requirements of Rule 28-106, F.A.C. and contain
a) A statement identifying with particularity the
allegations of the Department which you dispute and the nature
of the dispute;
(b) An explanation of what relief you are seeking and
believe you are entitled to;
(c) Any other information which you contend is material.
These Proceedings are held before a State administrative law
judge of the Division of Administrative Hearings. Unless the
najority of witnesses are located ‘elsewhere, the Department will
request that the hearing be conducted in Tallahassee.
T£ you request a hearing, you have the right to be
represented by counsel, or other qualified representative, to
take testimony, to call and cross-examine witnesses, and to have
50
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subpoena and subpoena duces tecum issued on your behalf.
You are hereby notified that mediation under Section
120.573, Florida Statutes, is not available.
Failure to follow the procedure outlined with regard to your
response to this notice may result in the request being denied.
All prior correspondence in this matter shall be considered
freeform agency action, and no such correspondence shall operate
as a valid request for an administrative proceeding. Any request
for administrative proceeding received prior to the date of this
notice shall be deemed abandoned unless timely renewed in
compliance with the guidelines as set out above.
21s day of February, 2000.
DATED and SIGNED this
LL NELSON
Treasurer and
Insurance Commissioner
SI
:
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STATE OF FLORIDA
DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE
IN THE MATTER OF:
DONALD WILLIAM SABO, UR. Case No.: 28892-99-AG
/ .
ELECTION OF RIGHTS
I have received and have read the Administrative Complaint filed against
me including the Notice of Rights contained therein and I understand my
options. I am requesting disposition of this matter as indicated below.
(Choose one)
1. €[— ] I do not desire a proceeding. The Department may enter a
final order revoking my license(s).
2. I do not dispute any of the Department's factual allegations
and I hereby elect an informal proceeding to be conducted in
accordance with section 120.57(2), Florida Statutes. in
this regard I desire to (Choose one):
{ ] submit a written statement and documentary evidence
{ ] attend an informal hearing to be held in Tallahassee;
or
{ 1] attend an informal hearing by way of a telephone
conference call.
3. [ ] I do dispute the Department's factual allegations. I have
attached to this form a statement indicating the specific
issues of fact which are disputed and other required
information indicated in the Notice of Rights. I hereby
request a formal adversarial proceeding pursuant to Sections
120.569 and 120.57(1), Florida Statutes to be held before
. the Division of Administrative Hearings.
DATE: a
Signature of Petitioner
TO PRESERVE YOUR RIGHT TO A Name :
PROCEEDING, YOU MUST RET :
. ENT" a Address:
(21) DAYS OF RECEIPT TO THE
DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE AT
THE ADDRESS INDICATED IN
THE NOTICE OF RIGHTS. Phone:
52
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I HEREBY CERTIFY that a true and correct copy of the
foregoing ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINT has been furnished to: DONALD
WILLIAM SABO, JR., 3532 Tidal Marsh Drive, Jacksonville, Florida
32050-2231 and to DONALD WILLIAM SABO, JR., Sunshine Casualty
Insurance, 8122-1 Lem Turner Road, Jacksonville, Florida 32208-
2760 by Certified U.S. Mail this 21st day of February, 2000.
David J. Busch
Florida Department of Insurance
Division of Legal Services
645 Larson Building
200 Bast Gaines Street
Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0333
(850) 413-4146
Fla. Bar No. 140945
53
Sree eine
Docket for Case No: 00-001249
Issue Date |
Proceedings |
Feb. 19, 2001 |
Order Closing File issued. CASE CLOSED.
|
Feb. 16, 2001 |
Motion to Relinquish Jurisdiction filed by Petitioner.
|
Feb. 05, 2001 |
Notice of Cancellation of Depositions filed. |
Feb. 05, 2001 |
Subpoena ad Testificandum 6 filed. |
Jan. 30, 2001 |
Petitioner`s Application and Notice to Use Beliveau Deposition at Final Hearing filed.
|
Jan. 25, 2001 |
Notice Regarding Witness Angela Orr`s Scheduled Deposition filed. |
Jan. 22, 2001 |
Notice of Taking Deposition filed. |
Aug. 17, 2000 |
Order Granting Continuance and Re-scheduling Hearing issued (hearing set for February 20 thurough 22, 2001, 12:00 p.m., Jacksonville). 2/20/01)
|
Aug. 15, 2000 |
Joint Motion for Continuance (filed via facsimile).
|
Jun. 26, 2000 |
Notice of Production of Documents (Petitioner) filed. |
May 03, 2000 |
Request for Production filed. |
May 03, 2000 |
(J. Berman) Notice of Service of Interrogatories filed. |
Apr. 24, 2000 |
Notice of Hearing sent out. (hearing set for September 5 through 7, 2000; 12:00 p.m.; Jacksonville, FL.) 9/5/00)
|
Apr. 06, 2000 |
(Petitioner) Response to Initial Order filed.
|
Mar. 31, 2000 |
Order of Consolidation sent out. (Consolidated cases are: 00-001248, 00-001249, 00-001250)
|
Mar. 30, 2000 |
Initial Order issued. |
Mar. 23, 2000 |
Administrative Complaint filed.
|
Mar. 23, 2000 |
Compliance with Rule 28-106, Florida Administrative Code filed.
|
Mar. 23, 2000 |
Election of Rights filed.
|
Mar. 23, 2000 |
Answer to Administrative Complaint filed.
|
Mar. 23, 2000 |
Agency Referral Letter filed.
|