Bossier City Bail Bond Agent Arrested and Served with a Notice of Proposed Action, License Suspension and Fine Notice
A Bossier City bail bond agent was arrested by the Louisiana State Police Insurance Fraud/Auto Theft Unit and served by Louisiana Department of Insurance Fraud Section Investigators yesterday with a Notice of Proposed Action, License Suspension and Civil Fine Notice for alleged felony theft and misappropriation of funds.
Patrick Dewayne Smith, Sr. , 38, was arrested by the Louisiana State Police Insurance Fraud/Auto Theft Unit on June 21, 2011 on a charge of felony theft. He was also served by the Department of Insurance Fraud Section Investigators with a one year summary suspension of his license and a $1,500 fine notice for alleged felony theft and misappropriation of funds.
Smith, under the trade name “Port City Bail Bonds,” allegedly overcharged a client $5,468 by charging for the full value of a bond that he said would to be refunded minus processing fees upon the release of the bond. The bond was released in July 2010, but as of this date no refund has been made.
According to Department records, Smith was issued a Bail Bond license in August 2006, which is active until suspension becomes effective 30 days from the time of notice. His license will be suspended for one year; however, if the fine is paid and the excess charge for the bond is refunded to the client within 30 days, then the suspension shall be reduced to 90 days. Smith has the right to appeal this action within 30 days.
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.
