Released: December 9, 2009

St. Bernard Parish agent was arrested by the Louisiana State Police Insurance Fraud/Auto Theft Unit and served by Department of Insurance Fraud Section Investigators with a cease and desist order, summary suspension of her license and fine notice yesterday evening for alleged misappropriation of premiums and forgery.

Jolie R. Bonvillian (40) was arrested by the Louisiana State Police Insurance Fraud/Auto Theft Unit and served by Department of Insurance Fraud Section Investigators with a cease and desist order, summary suspension of her license and a $21,250 fine notice yesterday. Bonvillian is alleged to have collected and misappropriated cash in the amount of approximately $149,426, written approximately 85 fraudulent commercial auto policies and obtained approximately 109 fraudulent Premium Finance Agreements to finance the policies. She is also alleged to have obtained approximately 230 additional fraudulent Premium Finance Agreements utilizing fraudulent borrower information and forging signatures. She is further alleged to have made a conscious effort to keep all payments up to date to prevent the fraud from being discovered.

Department records show that Bonvillian was issued a Property, Casualty and Vehicle Physical Damage licenses in August 1993 which was valid until being summarily suspended yesterday. Her license will be permanently revoked 30 days from the time of service unless a hearing is requested with the Department.

Commissioner Donelon urges consumers who feel uneasy about any insurance related transaction to call the Department of Insurance Fraud Section at 225-342-4956 or 1-800-259-5300. If callers do not want their names used, they can request that their involvement be kept confidential.