Investigators from the California Department of Insurance (CDI) Inland Empire Fraud Division recently arrested Palm Springs resident John Ryan, 64, for his alleged fraudulent actions while working as an insurance agent for the late philanthropist and art dealer Gregg Juarez.
The investigators arrested Ryan on May 24 after he failed to appear in court for arraignment on felony charges, a recent report from the California Statewide Law Enforcement Association (CSLEA) said. He faces 45 counts related to financial elder abuse, grand theft and identity theft.
“CDI investigators and detectives work to protect consumers from fraudulent agents who steal from their clients,” CSLEA President Alan Barcelona said. “These investigative professionals are very good at their jobs and most definitely have their hands full investigating complaints and allegations throughout California.”
Ryan allegedly diverted more than $75K from Juarez, a client and prominent art dealer and philanthropist who died in 2018 at the age of 93, the report said. Additionally, Ryan is accused of keeping premiums that should have been sent to the insurance company. The CDI learned about this from allegations made by Ryan’s former employees, which is also how Ryan initially came under investigation.
Ryan’s former offices were called Calinsured, Greater Palm Springs Insurance and PS Independent Insurance, the report said. As the investigation continues, CDI is encouraging former and current clients of Ryan to review their policies and verify that any funds sent to Ryan made it to the insurance company.
Anyone who suspects that they are a victim or has information pertaining to the case is asked to reach out to the department.
