News: 2010 Press Release

Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner announced today the arrests of two Central Valley men who were allegedly involved in staging the theft of an automobile and committing felony insurance fraud.

"If you attempt to get rid of your car and lie about it, you will face serious consequences," said Commissioner Poizner. "No matter how dire your circumstances are, do not commit insurance fraud in an attempt to make a buck, or you will wind up in jail."

Ismael Solis, 27, of Madera, surrendered at the Fresno County Jail on July 1. Robert Flores, 32, of Fresno, turned himself in on June 25. Both suspects are charged with felony insurance fraud by knowingly presenting a false claim. Flores was additionally charged with falsely reporting a crime. If convicted, could each face up to five years in state prison and/or a fine of $50,000 for each count, plus fines and restitution.

On June 20, 2009, Flores reported that his 2003 Honda Accord had been stolen from his residence in Fresno. On the same day, the vehicle was found burning in a rural area near Visalia. Flores filed an insurance claim with Victoria Fire and Casualty. The vehicle was a total loss. Flores and the lien holder of the vehicle received approximately $9,100 from the insurance company.

During the course of the investigation, it was discovered that on the night of the reported theft, Solis gave Flores a ride to Visalia. Flores reported to have not left his residence after midnight. Investigators discovered that Flores purportedly had left his residence that evening and traveled near Visalia.

Commissioner Poizner oversees sixteen CDI Enforcement Branch regional offices throughout the state. Nearly 2,800 insurance fraud-related arrests have been made by CDI since Commissioner Poizner took office in 2007 - more arrests than have been made during any other three year period, under any previous insurance commissioner.