In light of the recent arrest of Port Richey Mayor Dale Massad on charges of practicing medicine without a license, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis today announced he has directed his fraud detectives to investigate any alleged insurance fraud relating to Massad.
CFO Jimmy Patronis said, “As a result of the recent findings surrounding Mayor Massad’s arrest, I have directed my office to investigate whether or not he fraudulently profited from insurance policies while practicing medicine without a license. As this case remains ongoing, we ask members of the community to come forward with any information they may have surrounding this case.”
Massad, 68, was apprehended today as the Pasco County Sheriff’s deputies were serving a search warrant at his Port Richey home. He allegedly shot multiple rounds at deputies before being taken into custody. No injuries were reported.
Members of the community who believe they have information surrounding potential insurance fraud are encouraged to contact the CFO’s Fraud Tip Hotline by calling 1-800-378-0445. Callers can choose to remain anonymous and they may be eligible for a cash reward if the information they provide leads to a successful prosecution.
About CFO Jimmy Patronis
Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is a statewide elected official and a member of Florida’s Cabinet, who oversees the Department of Financial Services. CFO Patronis works each day to fight insurance fraud, support Florida’s firefighters, and ensure the state’s finances are stable to support economic growth in the state. Follow the activities of the Department on Facebook (FLDFS) and Twitter (@FLDFS).