florida

Published on: April 3, 2020

U.S. Attorney Launches Multi-Agency Task Force Targeting COVID-19 Fraud in Florida

U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez has announced the formation of the Middle District of Florida COVID-19 Fraud Task Force in response to the growing threat of fraud presented by the coronavirus pandemic.

The task force is made up of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Its mission is to identify, investigate, and prosecute incidents of fraud related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. As part of the effort, the Justice Department and its various components will coordinate information and resources with law enforcement agencies throughout Florida.

Published on: March 31, 2020

How Are Police Departments Dealing with Workers’ Compensation, Staff and Supply Shortages for COVID-19?

by Brian Silber

Detroit. New York. Fort Worth. Boston.

These are some of the largest police departments in the country, and all are suffering the effects of COVID-19. On a recent Friday, 10% of the New York police force, about 4,111 officers, called in sick as the virus began to move through the ranks. Over 500 personnel of the department have tested positive for the virus, including some top-ranking officials. Detroit’s PD has 20% of its officers under quarantine, while Boston’s former Boston Police Commissioner Ed Davis expressed what many officers and citizens alike worry about.

Published on: March 30, 2020

Owner of Sober Homes Network Sebastian Ahmed of Delray Beach, FL, Convicted in $38 Million Fraud Scheme

by Brian Silber

Sebastian Ahmed of Delray Beach has been convicted for his alleged involvement in a fraud scheme that exploited vulnerable drug addicts for kickback arrangements that enabled him and his alleged co-conspirators to make millions.

Ahmed, 42, was convicted of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, health care fraud, and money laundering. Attorney information wasn’t available.

Published on: March 27, 2020

John Pizicas of Orlando, FL, Faces DUI Charges after Leading Troopers on Chase

by Brian Silber

The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) has announced DUI charges against an Orlando man accused of leading troopers on a chase through construction zones last Sunday.

John Pizicas, 41, was charged for DUI damage to property or persons, leaving the scene of a crash involving damage to property, and fleeing with disregard of safety to persons or property. The press did not name an attorney for him.

Published on: March 26, 2020

South Carolina First Responders Ineligible for COVID-19 Workers’ Compensation

by Brian Silber

First responders put themselves on the line every day when they rush to the site of an accident or a citizen in need. This is even more true in this time of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially since so much is unknown about the virus. Those carrying the disease may not have any symptoms, yet they may be spreading it to everyone they are near, including first responders who arrive to help with no thought for their own safety.

South Carolina first responders are now asking if they will be eligible for Worker’s Compensation if they contract COVID-19 in the course of their work. The answer, unfortunately, is far from simple.