Elawyers Elawyers
Ohio| Change

DEPARTMENT OF FINANCIAL SERVICES vs RAYMOND PINTO, 06-000306PL (2006)

Court: Division of Administrative Hearings, Florida Number: 06-000306PL Visitors: 14
Petitioner: DEPARTMENT OF FINANCIAL SERVICES
Respondent: RAYMOND PINTO
Judges: LARRY J. SARTIN
Agency: Department of Financial Services
Locations: Tallahassee, Florida
Filed: Jan. 24, 2006
Status: Closed
Settled and/or Dismissed prior to entry of RO/FO on Wednesday, April 5, 2006.

Latest Update: Jun. 02, 2024
FILED we rJUN 2 2005 caMAY -6 PH 4:50 a _ Bocketed by TN DEPARTMENT OF FINANCIAL SERVICES > TOM GALLAGHER CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER no raft py IN THE MATTER OF: OD - I Yohe RAYMOND PINTO CASE NO.: 64858-03-AG ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINT. TO: RAYMOND PINTO 1490 104" Avenue Plantation, Florida 33322 Business Addresses: RAYMOND PINTO 8181 West Broward Boulevard, Suite 204 Plantation, Florida 33324 -or- RAYMOND PINTO 1370 N. University, #1370C Plantation, Florida 33322 You, RAYMOND PINTO, are hereby notified that the Chief Financial Officer 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, RAYMOND PINTO, are currently licensed in this state as a Health (2-40) and Legal Expense (2-56) agent, license I.D. #A207789. 2. At all times pertinent to the dates and occurrences referred to herein, you, RAYMOND PINTO, were licensed in this state as an insurance agent. 3. Pursuant to Chapter 626, Florida Statutes, the Florida Department of Financial Services (“DFS”) has jurisdiction over your insurance licenses and appointments. 4. At all time material to the dates and occurrences specified herein, the United States Workers of America Local 16 National Health Fund a/k/a or d/b/a HA WU National Health Fund; Local 16 National Health (“Local 16”), engaged in the business of insurance, or operated as one or more MEWAs in Florida. 5. On or about January 15, 2002, the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey (Newark), in Case Number 01-42881, entered a Notice of Chapter 7 Bankruptcy relative to Local 16. 6. At all times material to the dates and occurrences specified herein, Employers Mutual, L.L.C. (“Employers Mutual”), engaged in the business of insurance, or ostensibly operated as one or more MEWAs in Florida, by or through the following associations (non- exhaustive): (a) American Association of Agriculture (b) Association of Automotive Dealers & Mechanics (c) Association of Barristers & Legal Aids (d) | Communication Trade Workers Association (e) Construction Trade Workers Association (f) American Coalition of Consumers (g) Association of Cosmetologists (h) Culinary and Food Services Workers Association (i) Association of Educators @) Association of Health Care Workers (k) National Alliance of Hospitality & Innkeepers 0)) Association Manufactures & Wholesalers (m) Association of Real Estate Agents (n) Association of Retail Sellers (0) National Association of Transportation Workers (p) National Association of Independent Truckers. 7. On or about February 1, 2002, the United States District Court District of Nevada in Elaine Chao v. James Graf, Employers Mutual, et al., CV-N-01-0698-DWH (RAM) ruled that Employers Mutual and its related associations were not ERISA-qualified employee welfare benefit plans and therefore were not preemptively exempt from state insurance codes, and ordered that a Court Receiver or Independent Fiduciary administer Employers Mutual and its related associations, and; if necessary, implement their orderly termination. Furthermore, the Court ordered that the Independent Fiduciary collect, marshal, and administer the assets of Employers Mutual and its related associations, process the health benefit claims, and pay those that are found to be legitimate. 8. On or about August 14, 2001, DFS (then known as the Florida Department of Insurance) in In the matter of: Employers Mutual, L.L.C., et al., Case No. 42660-01-CO, stated: WHEREFORE, Employers Mutual, L.L.C., [et al.] ... are hereby notified that the Department intends to enter a permanent Cease and Desist Order pursuant to Section 626.9581, Florida Statutes, prohibiting the transaction by you and all related entities of insurance in the State of Florida, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without being licensed. 9. At all times material to the dates and occurrences specified herein, TRG was the acronym or pseudonym for a multitude of entities that engaged in the busiaess of insurance, or operated as one or more MEWAs in Florida, including, but not limited to: (a) T.R.G. Marketing, LLC (b) — T.R.G. Administration, LLC (c) The Redwood Group, LLC. 10. On or about January 15, 2002, DFS (then known as the Florida Department of Insurance), in Jn the matter of: T.R.G. Marketing, L.L.C., et al., Case No.: 43 160-Ol-CO, stated: WHEREFORE, TRG, [et al.] ... are hereby notified that the Department intends to enter a permanent Cease and Desist Order pursuant to Section 626.9581, Florida Statutes, prohibiting the transaction by you and all related entities of insurance in the State of Florida, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without being licensed. 11. In addition, other states have acted against TRG, including as follows: (a) Kentucky issued a Restraining Order on November 2, 2001; (b) Nevada issued a Cease and Desist Order on February 1, 2002; and (c) Arkansas issued a Cease and Desist Order on July 23, 2002. 12. At all times material to the dates and occurrences specified herein American Benefit Plans (“ABP”) engaged in the business of insurance, or operated as one or more MEWAs in Florida, by or ostensibly through the various entities, associations, or individuals, including, but not limited to: United Employers Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association (“UEVEBA”), Robert David Neal (individually and d/b/a American Benefit Plans) (“Neal”), and the National Association of Working Americans (“NAWA”) — all of which are hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as “UEVEBA.” The aforementioned are and have been identified with an ostensible health benefit plan known as the UltraMed Choice Major Medical Plans. 13. On or about March 1, 2002, the U.S. Department of Labor, Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration, in a letter to the Commissioner of the Arkansas Department of Insurance, concluded: Accordingly, in the [Department of Labor] view, [UEVEBA| is a MEWA ... Therefore, ERISA’s preemption provisions do not apply with respect to the UEVEBA arrangement (as distinguished from any individual ERISA-covered plans that obtain benefits through UEVEBA), and Arkansas is free to regulate the UEVEBA arrangement in accordance with applicable state law. Further, even if it [sic] the UEVEBA arrangement were itself found to be an ERISA-covered plan, Title I of ERISA does not preclude the application of Arkansas insurance law or regulations to the UEVEBA arrangement in accordance with Section 514(b)(5)(A) (29 U.S.C.A. 1144(b)(6)(A)] of ERISA. 14, On or about March 18, 2002, the U.S. Department of Labor, Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration, in a letter to the Commissioner of the Texas Department of Insurance, concluded: Accordingly, in the [Department of Labor] view, [UEVEBA] is a MEWA ... Therefore, ERISA’s preemption provisions would not apply with respect to the UEVEBA arrangement (as distinguished from any individual ERISA-covered plans that obtain benefits through UEVEBA), and Texas may regulate the UEVEBA arrangement in accordance with applicable state insurance law. Further, even if the UEVEBA arrangement were itself found to be an ERISA-covered plan, Title I of ERISA does not preclude the application of Texas insurance law or regulations to the UEVEBA arrangement in accordance with Section 514(b)(6)(A) [29 U.S.C.A. 1144(b)(6)(A)] of ERISA as described in our March 1, 2002, letter to the Arkansas Commissioner of Insurance. 15. On or about April 25, 2002, DFS, in In The Matter of: American Benefit Plans; United Employers Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association, Robert David, individually and doing business as American Benefit Plans, National Association for Working Americans [collectively referred to as “UEVEBA”’], et al., Case No. 43161-02-CO, ordered: The Respondents [including UEVEBA], whether acting ia the State of Florida as an insurer, a Multiple Employer Welfare Arrangement, insurance agents, insurance agencies, insurance adjuster, third-party administrators, managing general agents, or otherwise engaging in the business of insurance, either directly or indirectly through named and unnamed persons, entities, agerits, or otherwise, shall forthwith CEASE AND DESIST from the transaction of any new or renewal insurance business as or on behalf of unauthorized insurers. 16. On or about May 25, 2002, DFS, in Case No. 43163-02-CO, stated: WHEREFORE, the Respondents [UEVEBA] are hereby notified that the Department intends to enter a permanent Cease and Desist Order pursuant to Section 626.9581, Florida Statutes, prohibiting the transaction by you and all related entities of insurance in the State of Florida, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without being licensed. 17. On or about May 28, 2002, the District Court of Travis County, Texas in Texas v, American Benefit Plans; United Employers Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association; Robert David Neal, individually and doing business as American Benefit Plans, et al., Cause No. GV200903, ruled, in its Final Judgment, Permanent Injunction and Order Appointing Permanent Receiver, at paragraph 4, that: Defendants have participated in the creation, marketing and sale of unauthorized health care insurance plans. Defendants have collected money, variously labeled as “premiums,” “contributions,” “dues,” or other titles, from employers and employees under these fraudulent health care plans, and failed to pay claims of such employees and other beneficiaries and their health care providers. Defendants further participated in the creation of sham trusts in the name of United Employee Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association (“UEVEBA”) and United Employers Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association I (UEVEBA), into which money from employers, employees, and others were deposited and commingled. Defendants further participated in procuring reinsurance in connection with such health care plans from entities that do not hold certificates of authority to act as an insurer or reinsurer in Texas. The activities described above shall be collectively referred to as the “Unauthorized Health Care Program.” 18. At all times material to the dates and occurrences specified herein, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield (“Highmark BC/BS”) was not authorized to engage in the business of insurance in Florida and not authorized to operate as a MEWA in Florida. 19. At all times material to the dates and occurrences herein, Local 16, Employers Mutual, TRG, ABP, UEVEBA, and Highmark BC/BS transacted insurance as unauthorized insurers or MEWAs in the State of Florida. 20. At all times relevant hereto, Quik Quote Insurance Brokers, Inc., a/k/a or fik/a Quick Quote or Women’s Insurance Planning Center, Inc. (hereinafter “Quik Quote”), was a Florida corporation engaged in the business of transacting insurance in Fiorida. Quik Quote maintained offices at all times relevant hereto at 8181 West Broward Boulevard, Suite 204, Plantation, Florida 33324, 1370 N. University, #1370C, Plantation, Florida 33322, or 7860 Peters Road, #111F, Plantation, Florida 33324-4027. In addition, Quik Quote acted through an ~ entity or entities that shared Quik Quote’s addresses and were known variously as the Bertany Association for Travel and Leisure, Inc., the Business Association for Trade and Labor, Inc., or BAFTAL (hereinafter collectively referred to as “BAFTAL”). 21. At no time material to the dates and occurrences herein did Local 16, Employers Mutual, TRG, ABP, UEVEBA, or Highmark BC/BS possess Certificates of Authority from DFS to engage in the business of insurance or to operate as MEWAs in Florida. 22. Neither Local 16, Employers Mutual, TRG, ABP, UEVEBA, or Highmark BC/BS are subject to any exception to the licensure/Certificate of Authority requirement of the Florida Insurance Code in order to lawfully engage in the business of insurance or to operate as MEWAs in Florida. 23. At all times material to the dates and occurrences specified herein, Local 16, Employers Mutual, TRG, ABP, UEVEBA, and Highmark BC/BS transacted the business of insurance as insurers or operated as MEWAs in the State of Florida from or through the common business premises of BAFTAL and Quik Quote. 24, At all times relevant hereto, you, RAYMOND PINTO, were a corporate officer of BAFTAL and Quik Quote. 25. At all times material to the dates and occurrences herein, you, RAYMOND PINTO, did directly or indirectly represent or aid Local 16, Employers Mutual, TRG, ABP, UEVEBA, and Highmark BC/BS, unauthorized insurers or MEWAs, to transact insurance in the State of Florida, or did directly or indirectly aid agent Susan Pine or independent licensed agents as indicated in the numbered Counts below to unlawfully transact insurance in the State of Florida. 26. The particularized harm resulting from you, RAYMOND PINTO, directly or indirectly aiding or representing Local 16, Employers Mutual, TRG, ABP, UEVEBA, and Highmark BC/BS in the State of Florida is that insurance premium dollars may be misused and reserve and surplus funds may be unavailable such that the insurer may not be able to meet its contractual and statutory obligations toward medical providers and residents of the State of Florida. Furthermore, pursuant to Chapter 631, Florida Statutes, no state guarantee fund may be used to pay unpaid claims and creditors. This may cause Floridians irreparable financial injury. 27. The Florida insurance buying public must depend on the integrity, competence, honesty, and obedience to the law of an insurer, its agents, representatives, and administrators when applying for and purchasing insurance. Insureds, medical providers, and the State of Florida may incur and/or have incurred serious losses that may remain uncompensated due to the solicitation, sales, and administration of unauthorized insurance by you, RAYMOND PINTO. 28. At all times pertinent to the dates and occurrences referred to herein, pursuant to Section 626.592 and/or Section 626.839, Florida Statutes, you. RAYMOND PINTO, were personally and fully liable and accountable for any wrongful acts, misconduct, or violations of any provision of the Insurance Code committed either by you or anyone under your direct supervision and control while acting on behalf of Quik Quote. 29. Directly or indirectly representing or aiding an unauthorized insurer which has not satisfied the statutory safeguards poses a great risk of financial harm to the residents of Florida. By collecting premium payments for or on behalf of unauthorized insurers or by soliciting payments through fellow officers of BAFTAL or Quik Quote or through independent licensed agents, each occurrence of which represents direct or indirect action by you, RAYMOND PINTO, you aided and abetted the transaction of unauthorized health insurance in the State of Florida. 30. References to you, RAYMOND PINTO, include persons acting under your direct supervision and control and those whom you aided and abetted to commit violations of the Insurance Code. COUNT I 31. | The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 32. On or about March 12, 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to L.T., of Hollywood, Florida, a health insurance: plan through TRG. You furnished L.T. with application forms which were completed and delivered to you, and you began to collect fees on premiums paid by L.T. You induced L.T. to believe he was properly covered by health insurance under the plan. 33. As a direct or indirect result of you, RAYMOND PINTO, representing or aiding TRG, an unauthorized insurer or MEWA, L.T. was sold an unauthorized health insurance plan. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes]; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes], f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. 10 COUNT 34. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 35. On or about January 15, 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to C.M., of Sunrise, Florida, a health insurance plan through TRG. You furnished C.M. with application forms which were completed and delivered to you, and you began to collect fees on premiums paid by C.M. You induced C.M and her husband to believe they were properly covered by health insurance under the plan. 36. Asa direct or indirect result of you, RAYMOND PINTO, representing or aiding TRG, an unauthorized insurer or MEWA, C.M. was sold an unauthorized health insurance plan. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject cf insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes]; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; 1] d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Sectior 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. COUNT Il 37. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 38. On or about January 15, 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to V.R., of Pembroke Pines, Florida, a health insurance plan through TRG. You furnished V.R. with application forms which were completed and delivered to you, and you began to collect fees on premiums paid by V.R. You induced V.R. to believe she was properly covered by health insurance under the plan. 39. Asa direct or indirect result of you, RAYMOND PINTO, representing or aiding TRG, an unauthorized insurer or MEWA, V.R. was sold an unauthorized health insurance plan. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the 12 Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.61 1(7), Florida Statutes]; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. 13 COUNT IV 40. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 41. On or about January 15, 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to M.D. a health insurance plan through TRG. You furnished M.D. with application forms which were completed and delivered to you, and you began to collect fees on premiums paid. You induced M.D. to believe she was properly covered by health insurance under the plan. 42. As a direct or indirect result of you, RAYMOND PINTO, representing or aiding TRG, an unauthorized insurer or MEWA, M.D. was sold an unauthorized health insurance plan, and has alleged that TRG has failed to pay medical bills in an approximate amount of $30,000.00 that should have been paid under the plan. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes]; 14 c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. {Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes}; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), F lorida Statutes]. COUNT V 43. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 44, On or about February 16, 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to M.A., of Miami Beach, Florida, a health insurance plan through TRG. You furnished M.A. with application forms which were completed and delivered to you, and you began to collect fees on premiums paid by M.A. You induced M.A. to believe he was properly covered by health insurance under the plan. 15 45. As a direct or indirect result of you, RAYMOND PINTO, representing or aiding TRG, an unauthorized insurer or MEWA, M.A. was sold an unauthorized health insurance plan. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes]; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any 16 insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. COUNT VI 46. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 47. On or about December 17, 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to Mull & Associates, P.A., and its eraployees P.M., D.P., D.S., C.F., M.N., and K.K., of Tavernier, Florida, health insurance plans through TRG. You furnished the employees with application forms which were completed and delivered to you, and you began to collect fees on premiums paid by the employees. You induced the employees and their families to believe they were properly covered by health insurance under the plans. 48. Asa direct or indirect result of you, RAYMOND PINTO, representing or aiding TRG, an unauthorized insurer or MEWA, Mull & Associates, P.A. and its six employees were sold unauthorized health insurance plans. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes}; 17 c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. {Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. COUNT VII 49, The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 50. On or about January 9, 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to H.N., of Wesley Chapel, Florida, a health insurance plan through TRG. You furnished H.N. with application forms which were completed and delivered to you, and you began to collect fees on premiums paid. You induced H.N. to believe she was properly covered by health insurance under the plan. 18 51. As a direct or indirect result of you, RAYMOND PINTO, representing or aiding TRG, an unauthorized insurer or MEWA, H.N. was sold an unauthorized health insurance plan. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes]; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. COUNT VIII 52. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 53. In or about August 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to M.S., of Pensacola, Florida, a health insurance plan through TRG. You induced M.S. to believe he was properly covered by health insurance under the plan. 54, As a direct or indirect result of you, RAYMOND PINTO, representing or aiding TRG, an unauthorized insurer or MEWA, M.S. was sold an unauthorized health insurance plan, and has alleged that TRG has failed to pay medical bills in an approximate amount of $1,200.00 that should have been paid under the plan. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, aave violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes]; 20 c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. COUNT IX 55. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 56. Prior to May 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to D.G., of Rockledge, Florida, a health insurance plan through TRG. You induced D.G. to believe she and her husband were properly covered by health insurance under the plan. 57. As a direct or indirect result of you, RAYMOND PINTO, representing or aiding TRG, an unauthorized insurer or MEWA, D.G. was sold an unauthorized health insurance plan, 2] and has alleged that TRG has failed to pay medical bills that should have been paid under the plan. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, ‘save violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes}; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any 22 insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. COUNT X 58. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 59. In or about January 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to Total Communications Service, Inc. and its employees 3.N., Z.N., D.N., and J.B, of Melbourne, Florida, a health insurance plan through TRG. You began to collect fees on premiums paid on the employees’ enrollment. You induced the employees and their family members to believe they were properly covered by health insurance under the plan. 60. Asa direct or indirect result of you, RAYMOND PINTO, representing or aiding TRG, an unauthorized insurer or MEWA, Total Communications Service, Inc. and its employees were sold an unauthorized health insurance plan, and have alleged that TRG has failed to pay medical bills that should have been paid under the plan. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the appliczble provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes]; 23 c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. COUNT XI 6l. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 62. In or about September 11, 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to Moultin Layne, P.L. and its employees, D.M., B.P., and S.L, of Vero Beach, Florida, health insurance plans through TRG. You began to collect fees on premiums paid on the employees’ enrollment. You induced them to believe they were properly covered by health insurance under the plans. 24 63. Asa direct or indirect result of you, RAYMOND PINTO, representing or aiding TRG, an unauthorized insurer or MEWA, D.M., B.P., and S.L. were sold unauthorized health insurance plans, and have alleged that TRG has failed to pay medical bills that should have been paid under the plans. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes]; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; 25 f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. COUNT XH 64. | The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 65. On or about October 1, 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to A.D., of Wellington, Florida, a health insurance plan through TRG. You began to collect fees on premiums paid on A.D.’s enrollment. You induced A.D. and his wife to believe they were properly covered by health insurance under the plan. 66. As a direct or indirect result of you, RAYMOND PINTO, representing or aiding TRG, an unauthorized insurer or MEWA, A.D. was sold an unauthorized health insurance plan, and has alleged that TRG have failed to pay medical bills in an approximate amount of $200.00 that should have been paid under the plan. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicadle provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; 26 b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes]; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. COUNT Xi 67. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 68. On or about November 28, 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to D.M. Salon & Spa, Inc., and at least eight of its employees and their family members, including D.M. and her spouse A.M., of Stuart, Florida, a health insurance plan through TRG. You began to collect fees on premiums paid on the employees’ 27 enrollment. You induced the employees and family members to believe they were properly covered by health insurance under the plan. 69. Asa direct or indirect result of you, RAYMOND PINTO, representing or aiding TRG, unauthorized insurers or MEWAs, D.M. Salon & Spa, Inc. was sold an unauthorized health insurance plan, and has alleged that TRG have failed to pay medical bills in an approximate amount of $2,000.00 that should have been paid under the plan. IT 1S THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.61 1(7), Florida Statutes]; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- 28 designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. COUNT XIV 70. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 71. In or about August 1, 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to V.B., of Jacksonville, Florida, a health insurance plan through TRG You induced V.B. to believe she was properly covered by health insurance under the plan. 72. Asa direct or indirect result of you, RAYMOND PINTO, representing or aiding TRG, unauthorized insurers or MEWAs, V.B. was sold an unauthorized health insurance plan and has alleged that TRG have failed to pay medical bills in an approximate amount of $505.00 that should have been paid under the plan. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; 29 b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes]; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. {Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; | e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. COUNT XV 73. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 74. On or about September 11, 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to Comprehensive Billing Solutions, Inc. and its employees S.C. and D.R., of Sarasota, Florida, a health insurance plan through TRG. You induced S.C. and her husband and D.R to believe they were properly covered by health insurance under the plan. 30 75. As a direct or indirect result of you, RAYMOND PINTO, representing or aiding TRG, unauthorized insurers or MEWAs, S.C. and D.R. were sold an unauthorized health insurance plan, and have alleged that TRG has failed to pay medical bills that should have been paid under the plan. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes}; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; 31 f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. COUNT XVI 76. | The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 77. In or about April 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licersed insurance agent, caused to be sold to J.R., of Cocoa, Florida, a health insurance plan through TRG. You induced J.R. and his wife to believe they were properly covered by health insurance under the plan. 78. Asa direct or indirect result of you, RAYMOND PINTO, representing or aiding TRG, an unauthorized insurer or MEWA, J.R. was sold an unauthorized health insurance plan, and has alleged that TRG has failed to pay medical bills in an approximate amount of $15,000.00 that should have been paid under the plan. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes]; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. COUNT XVII 79. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 80. In or around June 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, solicited agent R.S., of Miami, Florida, to sell a health insurance plan through Employers Mutual. You provided R.S. with marketing materials in support of soliciting the public to enroll in the plan. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, lave violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the 33 Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes]; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes}; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. 34 COUNT XVUI 81. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 82. In or around May 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, solicited agent J.B., of Tequesta, Florida, to sell a health insurance plar. through Employers Mutual. You provided J.B. with marketing materials in support of soliciting the public to enroll in the plan. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes}; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities |ocated in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. COUNT XIX 83. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 84. On or about December 1, 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to R.H., of Tavernier, Florida, a health insurance plan through TRG. You furnished R.H. with application forms which were completed and delivered to you, and you began to collect fees on premiums paid. You induced R.H. and his wife to believe they were properly covered by health insurance under the plan. 85. As a direct or indirect result of you, RAYMOND PINTO, representing or aiding TRG, an unauthorized insurer or MEWA, R.H. was sold an unauthorized health insurance plan. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident. located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the appliczble provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes]; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. COUNT XX 86. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 37 87. On or about January 11, 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to R.M. a health insurance plan through Local 16. You furnished R.M. with application forms, and you began to collect fees on premiums paid. You induced R.M. and his wife to believe they and their family were properly covered by health insurance under the plan. 88. As a direct or indirect result of you, RAYMOND PINTO, representing or aiding AEBA/Local 16, unauthorized insurers or MEWAs, R.M. was sold an unauthorized health insurance plan. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes]; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; 38 e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. COUNT XxI 89. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 90. On or about January 25, 2002 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to R.S., of Jupiter, Florida, a health insurance plan through ABP. You furnished R.S. with application forms which were completed and delivered to you, and you began to collect fees on premiums paid on R.S.’s enrollment. You induced R.S. to believe she was properly covered by health insurance under the plan. 91. As a direct or indirect result of you, RAYMOND PINTO, representing or aiding ABP, unauthorized insurers or MEWAs, R.S. was sold an unauthorized health insurance plan, and has alleged that ABP have failed to pay medical bills in excess of $1,625.00 that should have been paid under the plan. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the 39 Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.61 1(7), Florida Statutes]; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Sectior. 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. 40 COUNT XXII 92. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 93. Prior to December 1, 2001 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to B.E., of Jackson, Mississippi, a health insurance plan through ABP. You induced B.E. to believe she was properly covered by health insurance under the plan. 94. As a direct or indirect result of you, RAYMOND PINTO, representing or aiding ABP, an unauthorized insurer or MEWA, B.E. was sold an unauthorized health insurance plan, and has alleged that ABP have failed to pay medical bills that should have been paid under thé’ plan. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes]; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; 41 d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes). COUNT XXIII 95. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 96. In or about February-March 2003 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, aided and abetted agent Paul McCarthy in soliciting or enrolling Florida consumers in a health insurance plan through Highmark BC/BS, an unauthorized insurer or MEWA. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.61 1(7), Florida Statutes]; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Sectior, 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. COUNT XXIV 97. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 43 98. In or about February-March 2003 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, directly or indirectly representing or aiding Highmark BC/BS, caused to be solicited to numerous insurance agents, including Manuel Arias, Jose Berrinquer, Ed Pauley, Tony Donato, Joy Herro, and Sylvester Cuffy, a health insurance plan through Highmark BC/BS, an unauthorized insurer or MEWA, for sale to Florida consumers. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes]; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicab‘e to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- 44 designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. COUNT XXV 99. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 100. In or about February-March 2003 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to K.B., of Ellenton, Florida, a health insurance plan through Highmark BC/BS, an unauthorized insurer or MEWA. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes]; 45 c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part [X) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. COUNT XXVI 101. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 102. In or about March 2003 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to J.B., of Sebastian, Florida, a health insurance plan through Highmark BC/BS, an unauthorized insurer or MEWA. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the 46 Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.61 1(7), Florida Statutes]; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicable to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- designated as Part IX) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities located in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. 47 COUNT XXVIT 103. The above general allegations are hereby realleged and fully incorporated herein by reference. 104. In or about February-March 2003 you, RAYMOND PINTO, as a licensed insurance agent, caused to be sold to D.R., of Hollywood, Florida, a health insurance plan through Highmark BC/BS, an unauthorized insurer or MEWA. IT IS THEREFORE CHARGED that you, RAYMOND PINTO, have violated or are accountable under the following provisions of the Florida Insurance Code and Rules of the Department of Financial Services which constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of your licenses and appointments: a. No person shall transact in this state, or relative to a subject of insurance resident, located, or to be performed in this state, without complying with the applicable provisions of this Code. [Section 624.11(1), Florida Statutes]; b. Demonstrated lack of fitness or trustworthiness to engage in the business of insurance. [Section 626.611(7), Florida Statutes]; c. Demonstrated lack of reasonably adequate knowledge and technical competence to engage in the transactions authorized by the license or appointment. [Section 626.611(8), Florida Statutes]; d. Violation of any provision of this Code or any law applicab!e to the business of insurance in the course of dealing under the licensure or appointment. [Section 626.621(2), Florida Statutes]; e. In the conduct of business under the license or appointment, engaging in unfair methods of competition or in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, as prohibited under Part X (re- 48 designated as Part 1X) of this chapter, or having otherwise shown himself or herself to be a source of injury or loss to the public. [Section 626.621(6), Florida Statutes]; f. No person shall, from offices or by personnel or facilities jocated in this state... directly or indirectly act as an agent for, or otherwise represent or aid on behalf of another, any insurer not being authorized to transact such business in this state. [Section 626.901(1), Florida Statutes]. WHEREFORE, you, RAYMOND PINTO, are hereby notified that the Chief Financial Officer 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, and 626.901, Florida Statutes, under the other referenced Sections of the Florida Statutes as set out in this Administrative Complaint and under the provisions of Rule Chapter 4-231, Florida Administrative Code. NOTICE OF RIGHTS You have the right to request a proceeding to contest this action by the Department pursuant to Sections 120.569 and 120.57, Florida Statutes, and Rule 28-107, Florida Administrative Code. The proceeding request must be in writing, signed by you, and must be filed with the Department within twenty-one (21) days of your receipt of this notice. Completion of the attached Election of Proceeding form and/or a petition for administrative hearing will suffice as a written request. The request must be filed with the General Counsel as acting Agency Clerk, at the Florida Department of Financial Services, 612 Larson Building, 200 East Gaines Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0333. Your written response must be received by the 49 Department no later than 5:00 p.m. on the twenty-first day after your receipt of this notice. Mailing the response on the twenty-first day will not preserve your right to a hearing. YOUR FAILURE TO RESPOND IN WRITING WITHIN TWENTY-ONE (21) DAYS OF YOUR RECEIPT OF THIS NOTICE 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 you request a proceeding, you must provide information that complies with the requirements of Rule 28-107.004, Florida Administrative Code. As noted above, completion of the attached Election of Proceeding form conforms to these requirements. Specifically, your response must contain: (a) The name and address of the party making the request, for purpose of service; (b) A statement that the party is requesting a hearing involving disputed issues of material fact, or a hearing not involving disputed issues of material fact; and (c) A reference to the notice, order to show cause, administrative complaint, or other communication that the party has received from the agency. If a hearing of any type is requested, you have the right to be represented by counsel or other qualified representative at your expense, to present evidence and argument, to call and cross-examine witnesses, and to compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of documents by subpoena, If a proceeding is requested and there is no dispute of material fact, the provisions of Section 120.57(2), Florida Statutes, apply. In this regard, you may submit oral or written evidence in opposition to the action taken by the Department or a written statement challenging the grounds upon which the Department has relied. While a hearing is normally not required in 50 the absence of a dispute of fact, if you feel that a hearing is necessary, one will be conducted in Tallahassee, Florida, or by telephonic conference call upon your request. However, if you dispute material facts which are the basis for the Departments action, you must request an adversarial proceeding pursuant to Sections 120.569 and 120.57(1), Florida Statutes. These proceedings are held before a State administrative law judge of the Division of Administrative Hearings. Unless the majority of witnesses are located elsewhere, the Department will request that the hearing be conducted in Tallahassee, Florida. Failure to follow the procedure outlined with regard to your response to this notice may result in the request being denied. All prior oral communication or correspondence in this matter shall be considered freeform agency action, and no such oral communication or correspondence shall operate as a valid request for an administrative proceeding. Any request for an 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. Mediation of this matter pursuant to Section 120.573, Florida Statutes, is not available. No Department attorney will discuss this matter with you until the response has been received by the Department of Financial Services. DATED and SIGNED this ‘ X yh _day of May, 2003. boa, (Mar adller N CHANDLER Deputy Chief Financial Officer 31 CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE I HEREBY CERTIFY that a true and correct copy of the foregoing ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINT and ELECTION OF PROCEEDING has been furnished to the following: RAYMOND PINTO, 1490 104” Avenue, Plantation, Florida 33322; RAYMOND PINTO, 8181 West Broward Boulevard, Suite 204, Plantation, Florida 33324; Raymond Pinto, 1370 N. University, #1370C, Plantation, Florida 33322 by Certified Mail this ad day of June, 2003. William W. Tharpe, Jr. se Division of Legal Services 200 East Gaines St. 612 Larson Building Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0333 (850) 413-4110 Florida Bar Number 312411 i 2. Auticle be COMPLETE THIS SECTION ON DELIVERY A. Received by (Please Print Clearly) B. Date of Dpiivg C. Signature 7 X AZ (e2LE ra FUbO 3901 9844 2700 4379 D. is ll ey acess de ftom tem 12 Yes 3. Service Type CERTIFIED MAIL | 4. Restricted Delivery? (Extra Fee) { Yes 1. Article Addressed to: Rk Tak RAYMOND PINTO 0 a 8181 W BROWARD BLVD STE 2! Poot Mey 33 '58-03-AG ON, FL 33324 64858-03-A' PLANTATI 33 C03 Tharpe RESTRICTED DELIVERY i PS Form 3811, July 2004 Domestic Return Receipt

Docket for Case No: 06-000306PL
Issue Date Proceedings
Apr. 05, 2006 Order Closing Files. CASE CLOSED.
Apr. 05, 2006 Order Granting Departments Motion for Offical Recognition.
Apr. 04, 2006 Department of Financial Services Motion to Relinquish Jurisdiction filed.
Mar. 27, 2006 Department of Financial Services` Notice of Response and Objections to Respondents` Request for Production of Documents filed.
Mar. 24, 2006 Respondents` Exhibit List filed.
Mar. 24, 2006 Respondents` Witness List filed.
Mar. 24, 2006 Department`s Motion for Official Recognition filed.
Mar. 21, 2006 Department of Financial Services` Witness List filed.
Mar. 21, 2006 Department of Financial Services` Exhibit List filed.
Mar. 06, 2006 Request for Admissions filed.
Mar. 06, 2006 Request for Production of Documents filed.
Mar. 06, 2006 Notice of Service of Respondents` First Set of Interrogatories to Petitioner filed.
Feb. 22, 2006 Notice of Deposition filed.
Feb. 09, 2006 Order of Pre-hearing Instructions.
Feb. 09, 2006 Notice of Hearing (hearing set for April 10 through 13, 2006; 9:30 a.m.; Tallahassee, FL).
Jan. 25, 2006 Order Opening DOAH Case Numbers 05-1641PL and 05-1642PL as DOAH Case Numbers 06-0305PL and 06-0306PL, and Consolidating Cases (formerly DOAH Case No. 05-1641PL and 05-1642PL).
Jan. 11, 2006 Letter to Judge Cohen from R. Fox requesting that case be reopened.
May 06, 2005 Administrative Complaint filed.
May 06, 2005 Amended Administrative Complaint filed.
May 06, 2005 Department of Financial Services Motion to Amend Administrative Complaint filed.
May 06, 2005 Petitioner`s Petition for Formal Section 120.57 (1) Administrative Proceeding filed.
May 06, 2005 Agency referral filed.
Source:  Florida - Division of Administrative Hearings

Can't find what you're looking for?

Post a free question on our public forum.
Ask a Question
Search for lawyers by practice areas.
Find a Lawyer