Released: August 10, 2009

A Ville Platte bail bond agent has been issued a cease and desist order, suspension of his license and fine notice today for allegedly filing false public documents.

James Carol Bertrand, 65, was served by Department of Insurance Fraud Section Investigators today with an order to cease and desist from engaging in the business of insurance, a six month suspension of his license and a $500 fine notice.

It is alleged that Bertrand submitted a fraudulent license application to the Department of Insurance in 2008 by not disclosing his prior criminal record. Records indicate that in 1983, Bertrand plead guilty and was convicted of a felony for Conspiracy to Commit Theft of U.S. Currency with a value of over $500.

Department records show that Bertrand was issued a Bail Bond license in September 2008 which was valid until today’s action.

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.