Texas Attorney Indicted Over Fraudulent Hail Damaged Roof Lawsuits
A Texas attorney is facing felony charges of insurance fraud, barratry, and money laundering related to several fraudulent hail claim lawsuits. Christopher Bertini surrendered to authorities this week and was released on $5,000 bond.
A Tarrant County grand jury issued the four-count indictment for Bertini earlier this month after an investigation by Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) fraud investigators. If convicted, Bertini faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Bertini filed lawsuits against insurance companies over roof claims from hail damage. But instead of clients coming to him, he used third parties to solicit business for the scheme.
The case was presented to the grand jury by Tarrant County prosecutor John Newbern. Tarrant County is one of five district attorneys’ offices across the state where TDI has prosecutors and investigators on staff focused on fighting insurance fraud.
