2024 Workshops
(Subject to Change)
Conference space North and South Tower Map-Tropicana.pdf
NJSA Seminar booklet 2024.pdf
Keynote Speaker: Brent J. Walker- 
Workshops & Bios
AI IN ACTION: PANEL INSIGHTS ON COMBATING INSURANCE FRAUD
Brent Walker
John Sargent
Casey Hemphill
Melissa Jones (moderator)
Join us for a dynamic panel discussion focused on how Artificial Intelligence is transforming the fight against insurance fraud. This session will cover some of the latest AI technologies and their practical applications in fraud detection and prevention. Attendees will gain insights from SIU industry experts on enhancing investigative strategies and improving operational efficiency. Discover some best practices to help you stay ahead of fraud threats in an evolving landscape.
Brent J. Walker
Brent has close to 30 years of combined experience in law enforcement, insurance fraud investigation, and nonprofit volunteer leadership. He was first introduced to fighting insurance fraud as a young police detective and has since spent the majority of his career in the special investigation units (SIU) with two large insurance carriers. He has held various roles to include major case investigator, regional SIU manager, and anti-fraud compliance director. In addition, Brent believes in the value of collaboration in the fight against insurance fraud and has been very active in the larger antifraud community for over two decades. He has had the opportunity to serve on the board of the International Association of Special Investigation Units (IASIU), lead a local Texas chapter, chair numerous committees, get involved with advocacy in both regulatory and legislative arenas, plan antifraud educational events, manage a global publication, and participate in many other initiatives. Prior to joining the Coalition Against Insurance Fraud, Brent co-chaired its Government Affairs Committee. Brent received a bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University-Commerce in organizational leadership and holds the Senior Claim Law Associate designation from the American Educational Institute. He has been married for over 30 years, has three children, and is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps.
John Sargent
John Sargent has joined Delta Group as Senior Vice President. John recently retired as the director, Special Investigation Unit (SIU) at MetLife, a position he held for over 15 years. He joined MetLife in 1995 and was named Director in 2004. During John’s 25 year tenure he supported the Auto & Home, Dental, Long-Term Care, Group Life and Short and Long-Term Disability products. John also volunteers in support of the industry and has served as the Co-Chair of the Coalition Against Insurance Fraud in Washington D.C.; the Vice Chair of the Board of Governors for the Insurance Fraud Bureau of Massachusetts and the past Chairperson and Board Director for the New York Alliance Against Insurance Fraud. He was also an advisor to the CEO of the National Insurance Crime Bureau providing counsel to that organization. John has presented on the topic of insurance fraud both domestically and internationally and is seen as an expert in the field. He began his professional career as a police officer in Massachusetts.
Casey Hemphill Associate
e-mail: casey.hemphill@bbs-law.com
Phone|Fax|Text: (412) 894-4110
611 William Penn Place, Suite 402
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Casey Hemphill is an associate in the Pittsburgh office of Bennett, Bricklin & Saltzburg LLC. Casey primarily focuses on defending insurance clients in automobile and general liability matters. Casey is admitted to practice law in Pennsylvania. He is also working towards becoming a Certified International Privacy Professional to best serve his clients’ varied needs, to include their information privacy interests. Additionally, Casey maintains a strong network of information privacy and cyber law experts and professionals across the country. Prior to joining Bennett, Bricklin & Saltzburg, Casey served as an Assistant District Attorney for the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office. Casey prosecuted a broad range of felony and misdemeanor crimes from the initial phases of prosecution through to verdict. Casey earned scholarship awards to attend law school at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. While in law school Casey was an Associate Editor for the Journal of Law and Commerce. He also served as the Teaching Assistant of the Cyber Law and Policy Seminar, taught by the Former U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania David Hickton. Casey received credit as a law student for leading the effort, through his public advocacy to expand the Allegheny County Bar Association’s Diversity Clerkship Program, to include additional groups of diverse candidates from law schools across the region. During Casey’s undergraduate career at Kent State University, Casey was selected as one of a small number of undergraduate and graduate students nationally, to serve as an Associate in the White House - Office of Presidential Correspondence. Casey read hundreds of letters directed to the 44th President each day and contributed to selecting the 10 letters directly reviewed by the President each evening. Casey had the honor of delivering the Keynote address at the initial book tour event for Jean Marie Laskas’ NYT Bestseller, To Obama, with Love, Joy, Anger and Hope. Casey is proud of his unique and enriching background. He is also a proud uncle and enjoys being a dedicated family member and friend.
Melissa Jones (Moderator)
Melissa Jones is an Investigator for Crum & Forster, a leading national property, casualty and accident & health insurer with a large, diversified specialty platform. Melissa specializes in social media, open source intelligence (OSINT), and background investigations. She is proud to serve on the board of directors for the New Jersey Special Investigators Association. Melissa earned her Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice at Arizona State University in 2020. Prior to that, she completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology at Ramapo College. In her free time, she is passionately involved in the ball hockey community and is currently the commissioner of the Women’s Tier of the National Ball Hockey League.
AUTO CRIMES, STREET CRIMES & ITS RELATIONSHIP TO WHITE-COLLAR CRIMES
Lt. Jarek Pryzanowski
Today, street gangs are no longer limiting their “operations” to guns, violence and the street drugs of the past. They have now expanded their “operations” to include white-collar crimes such as automobile finance fraud, identity theft, bank fraud, credit card fraud and money laundering at the local, national, and international levels. The course will provide debriefs on real cases of Auto Theft, Automobile Finance Fraud, Insurance Fraud, to include the area of health and other medical insurance. The goal of this course is to clarify the nexus between white-collar crime and crimes committed by street gangs. This course will provide an overview how a variety of major crimes relate to automobile theft and automobile crimes. The course will also show how the ever-changing rapid expansion of cyber-crime is increasing the number of fraud investigations with street-crime crossover
Jarek Pyrzanowski
LT. Jarek Pyrzanowski #1651
New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice
C-609.649.1494
pyrzanowskij@njdcj.org
Jarek Pyrzanowski
Lieutenant Pyrzanowski is currently assigned to the New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice, Major Threat Bureau which is a specialized unit within the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office. Lt. Pyrzanowski is responsible for overseeing investigations involving Major Automobile Crimes and other related major threat crimes. Prior to his current assignment, Lt. Pyrzanowski was assigned to the New Jersey Office of the Insurance Fraud Prosecutor and the New Jersey State Police Auto Theft Task Force which is also within the New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety. Lt. Pyrzanowski is a subject matter expert in the areas of Vehicle Theft, Vehicle Finance Fraud, and Vehicle Forensics. At first glance, Lt. Pyrzanowski’s experience in Vehicle theft and White Collar Crimes may seem unrelated, however, he has taken the knowledge and skills gleaned from both areas and applied them to help further complex criminal investigations. Priorto joining theDivision of Criminal Justice, Lt. Pyrzanowski worked in the Special Investigations Section of Liberty Mutual Insurance Company and as a patrol officer with the New Jersey Borough of Belmar Police Department. During his 25+year career in law enforcement, Lt. Pyrzanowski has conducted a number of complex criminal investigations including, but not limited to, automobile crimes, financial crimes, street gangs, drug trafficking, various types of fraud, and official misconduct. Lt. Pyrzanowski is also a certified technical investigator with extensive knowledge of electronic surveillance techniques and tactics, cell phone forensics, and vehicle infotainment extractions and analysis. In addition to his many career accomplishments, Lt. Pyrzanowski has served as the President of the New Jersey Vehicle Theft Investigators Association and was the 4th Vice President of the Northeast International Association of Auto Theft Investigators. Lt. Pyrzanowski is also a regular speaker at the New Jersey Police Academies and a number of law enforcement and industry-related seminars.
BEYOND THE EVIDENCE MINEFIELD: CONDUCTING ROBUST INVESTIGATIONS WITH DATA AND AI INTEGRITY
Luke Swigart
Michael Soriano, Esq.
In an ever-evolving world where discerning reality from falsehood is a growing challenge, investigators are increasingly faced with the ethical and legal complexities of utilizing data tools, including AI, in their work. "Beyond the Evidence Minefield: Conducting Robust Investigations with Data and AI Integrity" seeks to address the pressing question of how investigators can safely employ these tools without compromising data privacy.
In this discussion we will tackle three key areas:
1. Using Data and AI-Driven Models in Investigations: Exploring available tools and methodologies, this segment delves into safe and ethical practices when employing data and AI in investigations.
2. Staying on Course While Reaching Decisions: Assessing the resilience of investigations to judicial scrutiny and rules of evidence, this presentation covers methods and tools while balancing data privacy considerations.
3. Proving It - Navigating the Evidence Minefield: Concentrating on judicial scrutiny, this section addresses conducting investigations that meet legal standards and rules of evidence, even in the face of data privacy challenges.
Join us as we explore the intersection of investigations, data privacy, and AI, and equip yourself with the knowledge and strategies needed to conduct robust, ethical, and legally sound investigations in today's rapidly changing landscape.
Luke Swigart is a Pre-Sales Consultant at Shift Technology, working with our customers to ensure they realize maximum value from their investment with Shift. Luke has worked in the the Insuretech industry for over 6 years, helping carriers leverage technology to drive operational efficiency, enhance customer experiences, and optimize business outcomes. Prior to joining Shift, Luke worked with carriers, MGAs, and independent agencies to streamline their document intake and processing workflows.
Michael A. Soriano, a founding partner, focuses his practice on defense litigation involving matters of fraud, general liability and insurance coverage analysis. He has infused his 30 years of experience into successfully trying cases to verdict that involve homeowners such jewelry claims, roof damage, asbestos claims, fire losses and inventory fraud.
Prior to joining Bruno, Gerbino, Soriano & Aitken, LLP, Mr. Soriano was a senior associate with a law firm concentrating in the defense of cases involving suspected arson, fraud and exaggerated damages.
When he is not in court, the New York native participates in a variety of seminars for claims professionals and special investigative personnel on topics including: The Conducting and Use of Examinations Under Oath, First Party Punitive Damages, Proof of Loss Defenses in Matters of Suspected Property Damage Fraud and Investigations of Suspected Staged Accidents.
With a Juris Doctor degree from Hofstra University School of Law and a bachelor’s degree in English from Hofstra University, he is admitted to practice in the State of New York and the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York. He is also a member of the New York State and Suffolk County Bar Associations. Blaze of Deception: Unmasking Arson-for-Profit Scams
BLAZE OF DECEPTION: UNMASKING ARSON-FOR-PROFIT SCAMS
Det. Nicholas Esposito,
Office of the Insurance Fraud Prosecutor
Come walk through how fire forensics, expert interviews, and financial scrutiny, can lead to the exposure of criminal schemes. This class is more than just a case study, but lessons in spotting the red flags of arson-for-profit, where you will leave better equipped with practical tools to uncover fraud, build better cases, and prevent these kinds of devastating crimes. The heat is rising—be there to learn how to stop these schemes before they spread!
Nicholas W. Esposito is a highly skilled and dedicated detective, known for his thoughtful approach to investigations and unwavering commitment to serving the community. With a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Rider University, Nicholas has successfully applied his background in accounting to support meticulous investigations into insurance fraud, arson, and other fire-related crimes. His deep expertise in fire investigations—ranging from motor vehicle and marine vessel fires to arson—has made him a trusted resource in this specialized area of law enforcement. His certifications in fire-related disciplines, including arson investigation, further demonstrate his proficiency in this critical field.
Since joining the New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice, he has earned the respect of his colleagues and peers through a diligent work ethic and calm, measured demeanor in the field. He excels in conducting interviews, preparing legal documents, and managing both covert and overt surveillance operations. His ability to work across different units and adapt to the needs of each investigation speaks to his resourcefulness and team-focused mentality.
In addition to his investigative work, Nicholas serves as a physical fitness instructor for the Basic Course for Investigators at the New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice, where he helps prepare the next generation of law enforcement professionals to meet the physical demands of the job. He is also passionate about mentorship and education, teaching arson investigation techniques to less experienced detectives during in-house training.
Nicholas has valuable experience working closely with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), regularly meeting with their team to review ongoing cases. His collaboration with local, county, state, and federal law enforcement agencies has further broadened his perspective, and his professional opinion is frequently sought by colleagues across various levels of government. His extensive experience allows him to offer insightful guidance in complex investigative matters.
Nicholas also served as a Public Safety Telecommunicator with the Gloucester County Department of Emergency Response from 2015-2021, where he handled emergency calls and coordinated the dispatch of critical resources. His early experience as an EMT/Rescue Team Member with Monroe Township Ambulance and Rescue from 2011-2016 allowed him to provide emergency care and assist EMS crews during rescue operations, further strengthening his commitment to public safety.
Beyond his professional duties, Nicholas is deeply committed to community engagement. He volunteers for all Division of Criminal Justice outreach events, including National Night Out, Law Enforcement Career Fairs, and statewide networking events. He previously participated in the Paterson Nightlife Initiative, a crucial effort aimed at addressing public safety concerns related to nightlife, gang activity, and criminal behavior in high-risk areas. This initiative underscores his dedication to improving the safety and quality of life for communities across New Jersey.
Humble about his contributions, Nicholas is deeply respected for his integrity, dedication, and quiet leadership. Colleagues describe him as someone who leads by example, bringing both expertise and compassion to his role as a detective. Whether he's guiding less experienced detectives, working alongside federal agencies, or uncovering the truth in complex cases, Nicholas' unwavering commitment to justice and service shines through. He remains steadfast in his mission to protect and serve, leaving a lasting impact on every case and every person he encounters.
BUILDING DIRTY MONEY: MONEY LAUNDERING AND FRAUD IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY
Andrew McDonnell
Josh Dennis
Wayne Comegno
Kelly Larkin
“Building Dirty Money” will explore the prevalence and impact of money laundering and insurance fraud within the construction industry. Attendees will gain insight into how these illicit activities are perpetrated, facilitated and sustained outside of our financial and legal systems. We will also examine the financial and legal risks these crimes pose to construction companies, insurers, communities and society as a whole. The presentation will highlight red flags to watch for, best practices for prevention and the need for collaboration amongst multiple stakeholders to identify and mitigate these risks. By the end of the presentation, participants will be equipped with actionable knowledge to safeguard their organizations against potential fraud and criminal exploitation.
Andrew McDonnell is currently the Supervisor of the Financial Crimes Unit and has been an Assistant Prosecutor in the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office for over 23 years. During his tenure as an Assistant Prosecutor, he has been assigned to the Appellate, Grand Jury, Trial, Financial Crimes, and Insurance Fraud Units, as well as being detached to the Gangs, Guns, Narcotics Task Force for wiretap investigations. Before going to law school, he worked as a Computer Specialist/Management Analyst for the Civil Division of the United States Department of Justice. He holds a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies from Georgetown University and a J.D. from the Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law.
Josh Dennis is an Assistant Prosecutor with the Burlington County Office of the Prosecutor, where he serves as the Supervisor for both the Insurance Fraud Unit and the Collision and Accident Reconstruction Unit. Previously, he held positions with Juvenile, Grand Jury, and Trial Team. Prior to joining the Burlington County Office of the Prosecutor, he worked as Assistant and Acting Program Coordinator for the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office Youth Aid Panel Programs, a diversionary mediation program for juvenile offenders. Assistant Prosecutor Dennis is a United States Navy Veteran and served honorably during Operation Desert Storm. He remains active on executive boards for both the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars, and has been awarded the New Jersey Meritorious Service Award for distinguished military service. He holds a B.A. in Economics from Holy Family University and a J.D. from Temple University – Beasley School of Law.
Wayne Comegno is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with nearly 25 years of diverse experience that spans both the business world and law enforcement—an uncommon blend that gives him a unique perspective on financial and criminal investigations.
After graduating with a degree in accounting, Wayne began his career as an auditor with a prestigious 'Big Four' accounting firm, honing his skills in financial auditing and analysis. But in 2005, his career took an exciting turn when he joined the ranks of law enforcement in New Jersey, graduating from the Burlington County Police Academy and becoming a valued member of the Burlington City Police Department. During which time, Wayne rose through the ranks, serving as a Patrol Officer, Special Investigator, Detective and Sergeant, where he earned numerous accolades, including Police Officer of the Year award. Wayne’s dedication and skill eventually led him to serve as the Financial Crimes Detective for the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office. He currently is employed within the financial industry for a private company and holds a master’s degree in criminal justice.
Wayne's background is truly diverse. Over the years, he has been involved in hundreds of financial, civil and criminal investigations involving financial statement audits, audits of internal controls, policy and contract violations, compliance reviews, civil forfeitures, homicides, armed robbery, assault, burglary, sexual assault, theft, embezzlement, firearms violations, fraud, computers crimes and the possession, use and illegal trafficking of controlled dangerous substances. His sharp analytical skills and deep understanding of both financial systems and criminal behavior make him a standout in his field.
Wayne presents and instructs courses involving financial crimes and investigations to law enforcement professionals throughout the country, an area of great need within the industry. His flagship class, “The Money Trail,” provides an introduction to financial crimes and simple tools and techniques to plan, execute and communicate successful financial investigations.
Kelly Larkin Principal Investigator NJM Insurance Group
Kelly was hired by NJM in 1992 , shortly after she graduated with a Criminal Justice degree from Trenton State College. She was hired as a Workers’ Compensation Claims Adjuster and held that position until 1994 when she was transferred to the SIU Department . Kelly was the first full-time female SIU Investigator at NJM and conducted workers’ compensation claims investigation , doing surveillance , interviews etc.
A few years later she was assigned her first Workers’ Compensation Premium Fraud case and from there became one of the few investigators for NJM conducting these types of investigations She has been in the department for 30 years conducting fraud investigations across many lines of business as well.
In 2013 ,she received the NJSIA Investigator of the Year Award for her work on a Workers’ Compensation Premium Fraud case and in 2017 was awarded The Investigation of the Year award along with several other industry partners who were instrumental in bringing another Workers’ Compensation Premium Fraud case to prosecution.
Kelly is currently a member of the Coalition Against Insurance Fraud Workers’ Compensation Premium Fraud Task force .
CONNECT & CONQUER:TRIVIA AND NETWORKING AGAINST INSURANCE FRAUD
Danielle Johns
Martin Luther King Jr once said during his “Keep on Moving” speech given in May of 1963, “There is power in unity, and there is power in numbers”. In 2024, in our fight against insurance fraud, we all have a very powerful tool that we must use and continuously develop, it’s called NETWORKING! Whether you’ve been fighting insurance fraud for 20 years or 20 days, what better way to end the day by meeting your industry peers and joining together in a fun game of general trivia, with some insurance questions sprinkled in. This one hour session will maintain focus on meeting and getting to know someone new while being slightly competitive. And of course we will Connect & Conquer, Atlantic City style, with the potential to win a prize. Do not worry about what you may or may not know, everyone will be on a team. Come and have some fun and laughs. This class is for everyone.
Danielle Johns is currently a SIU Supervisor at NJ Manufactures Insurance Group, overseeing the PIP/Medical Investigation Team. She has been an insurance fraud investigator for the past 25 years in the private sector handling property and casualty case investigations inclusive of both personal and commercial lines of insurance. Danielle’s expertise includes areas of personal injury protection claims, global medical provider investigations, workers compensation and premium fraud, rate evasion, thefts, and general liability. She has experience with data analytics programs such as Netmap. Danielle also worked as the Investigating Manager at the Bureau of Fraud Deterrence managing the Major Fraud Unit.
CRACKING THE CASE: INVESTIGATING CHIROPRACTIC CARE FROM RECORD REVIEW TO EXAMINATION UNDER OATH
Matthew J.Burdalski, Esq.
Ariel C. Brownstein, Esq.
The class will focus on all aspects of chiropractic care – from decoding the medical records to asking the right questions at recorded statements/Examinations Under Oath. Participants will learn properly investigate chiropractic treatment from the referral to the end of treatment. The class will go over real examination reports and daily treatment notes to show participants what to look for when reviewing billing and medical records. Additionally, the class will review in-depth questions that should be asked of patients to determine if treatment was properly billed and what red flags to look for.
Matthew J. Burdalski, Esq.
15000 Midlantic Drive, Suite 200
P.O. Box 5429
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
Direct: (856) 414-6035
mjburdalski@mdwcg.com
Matt is a shareholder in the firm's Fraud/Special Investigation Practice Group where he focuses primarily on large loss fraud and medical provider fraud. His practice in the area of fraud investigation involves the assessment and evaluation of both medical provider fraud and fraudulent claims on the part of his clients' insureds. Matt also has experience dealing with insurance coverage disputes, representing numerous insurance carriers across multiple states for the purposes of SIU investigation, bad faith litigation and general defense litigation. In doing so, Matt has represented a significant number of insurance carriers on these issues and has assisted in high-dollar and high-profile medical provider fraud, property loss and insurance fraud matters.
During his time with the firm, Matt has taken numerous Examinations Under Oath, drafted various complex coverage opinions and litigated topics of insurance fraud including, but not limited to, medical provider fraud, large loss property investigations and bad faith. In particular, he has assisted in multiple high-profile matters regarding carrier recovery of monies paid to fraudulent medical providers and as a result of fraudulent motor vehicle accidents. He has also successfully represented his clients in matters involving policy coverage and eligibility for benefits.
Matt earned his undergraduate degree from West Chester University and went on to receive his juris doctor from Widener University, in Wilmington, Delaware, graduating cum laude and with pro bono distinction. As a law student, he took part in Widener's Environmental Law Clinic, working with clients in all aspects of complex environmental litigation, and was the recipient of the Greenwatch Award for excellence in environmental law.
Prior to joining the firm, Matt represented insurance carriers and employers in the field of workers' compensation defense litigation where he handled matters in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Ariel C. Brownstein, Esq.
15000 Midlantic Drive, Suite 200
P.O. Box 5429
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
Direct: (856) 414-6075
acbrownstein@mdwcg.com
Ariel, a shareholder in the Casualty Department, focuses his practice on insurance fraud and Special Investigation Unit (SIU) litigation with particular emphasis on large loss fraud and medical provider fraud. His practice in the area of fraud investigation consists of assessing and analyzing fraud by both medical providers and falsified claims brought by his client's insureds. In doing so, Ariel has represented a significant number of insurance carriers on these issues and has assisted in multi-million dollar high-profile medical provider fraud investigations and law suits in various states.
Moreover, Ariel has litigated on behalf of many different clients in favor of protecting the interests of insurance carriers in court seeking to disclaim coverage for fraudulent claims. He has taken numerous comprehensive Examinations Under Oath on SIU-related issues throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania. In particular, he has assisted in several high-value and high-profile matters regarding carrier recovery of monies paid to fraudulent medical providers and fraudulent motor vehicle accidents. Furthermore, Ariel has litigated extensive insurance fraud and other personal injury protection related matters in the National Arbitration Forum (NAF)/Forthright and Superior Court for his clients.
During his career, Ariel has handled several high value cases on behalf of his clients. In one particular case, the amount sought by the Claimant was denied by the arbitrator due material misrepresentations made by the insured regarding his prior medical history and his injuries at the time of the subject loss during an Examination Under Oath, conducted by Ariel. In another matter, Ariel successfully argued that a claimant was subject to a personal injury protection benefit limit selected by the named insured, a live-in boyfriend and the amount demanded, was denied.
Prior to joining the firm, Ariel served as a law clerk for the Honorable Richard Geiger in Cumberland County Superior Court. His responsibilities included researching criminal law precedence, reviewing memoranda and pre-trial motions, and mediating civil lawsuits.
CRACKING THE CODE: MOBILE FORENSICS FOR FRAUD INVESTIGATIONS *CLE*
Timothy R. Primrose
With the rapidly evolving landscape of digital technology, mobile devices are key to unlocking valuable data for fraud investigations. In “Cracking the Code: Mobile Forensics for Fraud Investigations,” Timothy R. Primrose, Mobile Forensic Analyst with DJS Associates, introduces the types of data available for extraction and analysis from cell phones, vehicle infotainment systems, and more. Real case applications utilizing mobile forensic analyses will be explored to help attendees gain understanding of how device data can be harnessed to establish timelines, track movements, corroborate testimonies, and uncover crucial insights surrounding a person’s activities and communications.
Data Sources (10 minutes)
A. Device Data: Cell Phones 1. Text Messages 2. Call Logs 3. Digital Media and Metadata a. Photos b. Videos 4. Browser History
B. Cloud Data 1. Social Media a. Facebook b. Instagram 2. Mobile Payments a. Venmo 3. Audio / Video Streaming Services
C. Geolocation Data 1. GPS: User Data vs. Forensic Software 2. Map / Ridesharing Applications 3. Carrier Records a. Cell Tower Data b. Activity Logs c. Azimuth
D. Other Devices 1. Dash Cam 2. Doorbell Camera 3. Infotainment Systems
Data Collection (10 minutes)
A. Obtaining Access: consent, subpoenas, warrants
B. Device Downloads 1. Timeline 2. Expectations 3. Variables
C. Spoilation: repairing devices for forensic analysis 1. Water Damage 2. Chip-Off
D. Data Preservation 1. Outdated platforms / services a. AIM
Forensic Analysis & Case Applications (20 minutes)
A. Criminal Investigations 1. State of California vs. Robert Koehler 2. Burner Phones
B. Online Harassment 1. Cyber Bullying 2. Fake Social Media Messages
C. Property Claims 1. Tenant-Landlord Disputes 2. Property Damage a. Arson
D. Auto Claims 1. Distracted Driving 2. Vehicle Activity 3. Synchronizing Device Data
Timothy R. Primrose JDS Associates
Mobile Forensic Analyst
Tim earned his degree in Digital Forensics, with a focus on Information and Technology Management, from Bloomsburg University in Pennsylvania. As a Mobile Forensic Analyst, Tim handles securing, imaging, and analyzing mobile devices for the municipal, legal, and insurance industries. His services include the review and analysis of digital evidence casefile materials; securing, extracting, and storing of digital data evidence; creating, finalizing, maintaining, and executing formal documentation including chain of custody, consent, and release forms.
Tim was trained and certified as an Operator, Physical Analyst and Advanced Smartphone Analyst by Cellebrite. He works closely with the Automotive Engineering and Collision Reconstruction Departments to research, test, and analyze the connection of data from telecommunication systems to automobiles and their infotainment systems. Tim is able to access and interpret data pertaining to cell phones, GPS devices, social media, Apple watches, Fitbits, and more.
On the weekends, Tim enjoys eating chicken wings and watching the Philadelphia Eagles with his friends. When the birds aren’t playing, he and his girlfriend enjoy trips to Peddler’s village to take part in their monthly festivities. A little-known fact about Tim is that he earned Second-Degree Black Belt in Karate.
Email: trp@forensicdjs.com
EARLY DETECTION AND SPOTTING OF PIP FRAUD
Matthew J. Smith, Esq.
The class will provide valuable insight to claims and investigation professionals, as to what anomalies to look for, how to properly prepare for such an investigation or inquiry, fundamentals to consider and effective techniques to use in their review and investigation of claims.
Matthew J. Smith
MATTHEW J. SMITH is a partner and principal at Callinan & Smith, LLP, which he and his partner Michael Callinan founded in April 2020.
His practice includes the defense of general liability claims, motor vehicle negligence claims, premises liability claims, homeowner litigation claims, Personal Injury Protection claims and fraud, bad faith and extra-contractual claims, insurance coverage disputes and suspect/fraudulent insurance claims. In addition, he represents various insurers in declaratory judgment actions, and in affirmative actions.
Matthew J. Smith attended Pace University, Pleasantville, New York, where he completed a Baccalaureate in Political Science, in January 1986, graduating Cum Laude. He also received a Master’s Degree in Public Administration (Government Track), from Pace University Graduate School, White Plains, New York, in May 1988. He graduated from Pace University School of Law in May 1993, Cum Laude, and had served on the Environmental Law Review Editorial Board, was the Miller Scholar, was a Ranking/Dean’s scholar, Dean’s List, founding member and second President of the Pace Gaelic Law Society, and served on Moot Court Board. He has also published multiple Legal Articles in Law Reviews and National Journals.
He was admitted to the State Bars of New York and New Jersey in 1994, the United States Supreme Court in 1997, the Eastern District of New York in 2007, and, to the Pennsylvania Bar in 2019. Mr. Smith served as an Assistant District Attorney, at the Bronx County District Attorney’s Office, in Bronx, New York, from August 1993 until May 1996. As an Assistant District Attorney, he was assigned to the Appeals Bureau. While there, he also compiled with another member of his Bureau, a litigation manual for cases subject to the New York State Mental Health laws and Criminal Procedure Law Articles 330 and 710.
From May 1996 through September 2011, Mr. Smith was an attorney with the law firm of Melli, Guerin Wall & Messineo, P.C., in Paramus, New Jersey, where he was a partner in the insurance fraud and litigation practice section, from September 2011 until May 2013, Mr. Smith was the Managing Attorney for the New York and New Jersey offices for the Allen, Kopet & Associates law firm, and from May 2013 until April 2020, Mr. Smith was a Partner with Bruno, Gerbino, Soriano & Aitken, where he managed the firm’s Ramsey New Jersey office and was lead attorney for their New Jersey practice.
Mr. Smith frequently lectures on Insurance Fraud issues to clients and professional organizations throughout the United States, and has lectured at the Bergen County Police Academy, NICB conferences, NYACT, NJSIA and for multiple insurance carriers. He was appointed by the New Jersey Supreme Court to serve as a Panel Chair and Vice District Chairperson for District II-A Fee Dispute Panel from 2011 until 2015.
Mr. Smith is also a Veteran, having served as an ARMY officer on active duty attaining the rank of Captain, a member of the ARMY National Guard and Reserves, and a Legal Officer attaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force-Auxiliary/Civil Air Patrol. He is a 4th Degree Member of the Knights of Columbus and a Deputy Grand Knight, a Degree Member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians as well as the Vice President of Division 2 In Lackawanna County Pa., Pennsylvania Ancient Order of Hibernians State Attorney (Eastern) and he and his wife Michele have served as a host family for Project Children since 2002.
EMG/NCV TESTING ISSUES FOR ATTORNEYS *CLE*
James Rose,Esq.
James has investigated fraudulent EMG/NCV testing for ten years. Over the course of these ten years James worked with numerous neurologists and compiled the issues they identified into this presentation. The presentation will present useful information for anyone who routinely investigates or handles EMG/Testing and is not limited to attorneys.
Mail: rose@bbs-law.com
Phone|Fax|Text: 856.673.3478
Office: Marlton, NJ
James Rose
James Rose is an associate in the firm's Marlton NJ office who focuses his practice in the firm’s Special Investigations unit investigating insurance fraud. He is a magna cum laude graduate of Rutgers School of Law in Camden, New Jersey where he was the recipient of a full merit scholarship after graduating from Ramapo College of New Jersey. Prior to college, James was a military policeman in the United States Army, having enlisted after 9/11, and then a banker for Capital One. He began his career with Bennett, Bricklin & Saltzburg LLC as a summer associate in 2014.
In his free time, James spends his summers and weekends in Cape May at his family’s shore house. He enjoys fishing, reading and relaxing on the beach.
FALSE CLAIMS ACT AND SELF-INSURED UPDATE *CLE*
Richard E. Vuernick, Esq.
Douglas M. Alba, Esq.
This presentation discusses recent case developments in the False Claims Act (“FCA”) area, especially as they relate to using data effectively to bring an action. Additionally, we explore a few developments that make using data from the State Health Benefits Program feasible to bring an FCA action. Finally, we review the path for self-insureds – local governments, unions and corporations – to build and implement an effective anti-fraud program.
Kennedy Vuernick, LLC
The Meadows Office Complex
301 Route 17 North, Suite 800
Rutherford, NJ 07070
E-Mail: info@kvlawllc.com
Website: http://www.kvlawllc.com
Tel: 201-636-9980
Richard E. Vuernick, Esq.
Mr. Vuernick began his legal career as a consumer advocate in Washington D.C., for Citizen Action, a nationwide consumer advocacy organization. As Legal Policy Director, he testified before Congress and federal administrative agencies about the impact on consumers of legislation and administrative regulations. He appeared frequently on television and radio programs discussing and debating consumer protection legislation.
Upon his return to New Jersey, Mr. Vuernick served as Deputy Attorney General in the New Jersey Office of Insurance Fraud Prosecutor, where he was responsible for investigating and prosecuting insurance fraud and organized crime matters from their inception through trial. For nearly 20 years since then, he has represented businesses and individuals pursuing legal remedies against fraud.
Mr. Vuernick concentrates his private practice on three areas. Mr. Vuernick uses his knowledge and expertise to help insurance companies and other businesses recoup money lost to fraud. He also litigates on behalf of corporate and individual whistleblowers with information about government contractor fraud, utilizing the federal or state False Claims Acts. He helps clients ensure the integrity of their organizations by conducting internal investigations into potential malfeasance, and offering workable solutions to the governing bodies of both governmental and private organizations.
EDUCATION
Mr. Vuernick received his bachelor’s degree from Vassar College and his J.D. from Western New England College School of Law.
BAR ADMISSIONS
Mr. Vuernick is admitted to practice law in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania and in the federal courts in those states.
Douglas M. Alba, Esq.
Mr. Alba began his prestigious litigation career as a Deputy Attorney General in the Division of Law with the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General. As a Deputy Attorney General, Mr. Alba litigated civil fraud cases on behalf of the Medicaid program. He also served as Counsel to the New Jersey Spinal Cord Injury Commission, the Board of Nursing Home Administrators and the Department of Human Services’ HIPAA Compliance Committee.
During more than 18 years in private practice, Mr. Alba represented insurance carriers in some of the most significant civil prosecutions under the Insurance Fraud Prevention Act. As recently as 2019, Mr. Alba was part of a litigation team that presided over a favorable jury trial verdict finding that numerous medical providers violated the Insurance Fraud Prevention Act. Additionally, in 2018, Mr. Alba obtained numerous favorable summary judgment decisions which held that: a chiropractor violated the Insurance Fraud Prevention Act; medical doctors violated the Codey Act; and medical doctors violated the Board of Medical Examiners’ regulations.
Since joining Kennedy Vuernick, Mr. Alba has continued his client-centered, practical approach to investigating and litigating civil insurance fraud. Mr. Alba also handles personal injury protection benefits and uninsured motorist benefits litigation.
EDUCATION
Mr. Alba received his bachelor’s degree from Marist College and his J.D. from the Rutgers School of Law at Camden.
BAR ADMISSIONS
Mr. Alba is admitted to practice in the state and federal courts of New Jersey and before the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.
FRAUDSTERS ACTING LIKE INSURANCE BROKERS, AND UNDERWRITING FRAUD *CLE*
Matthew Werbel, Esq.
Richard Nelke, Esq.
This breakout session will be a case study regarding an individual was acting like an insurance broker, and providing underwriting and claims services, although not a licenses broker. The program will involve the team from NJM, their SIU analytics and investigators, how to identify and assess “insurance broker fraud”. This presentation will also focus on rescinding insurance policies for material misrepresentations. It will establish good practices for investigation and identification of underwriting fraud.
Matthew Werbel
Tulane University School of Law, J.D. 1998
Franklin & Marshall College, B.A. 1994
Mr. Werbel joined the firm following a successful clerkship with the Honorable Edward W. Beglin, Jr., Assignment Judge of the Superior Court in Union County. At Tulane he specialized in environmental litigation and regulatory actions, receiving a certification in Environmental Law as well as a J.D.
Mr. Werbel presently represents insurance carriers, insureds, and self-insureds in the investigation and defense of both first and third-party claims.
Mr. Werbel handles cases in many areas, including environmental, fraud, first and third party coverage, inland marine, liability, and subrogation. Additionally, Mr. Werbel has successfully argued several cases before the Appellate Division including several that were approved for publication. Mr. Werbel also handles substantial subrogation claims including the early investigation of those claims.
Mr. Werbel has also presented many seminars on topics such as Mold, Bad Faith, Insurance Fraud, Unfair Claims & Settlement Practices Act, Staged First Party Claims, Additional Insured and Indemnification Claims, Collapse Claims, and Duty to Defend Negligent and Intentional Torts.
Richard A. Nelke
Pace University School of Law, J.D. 1999
Seton Hall University, B.A. 1996
Admitted to the New Jersey Bar, 1999
Admitted to the New York and Washington D.C. bars, 2000
After graduation, Mr. Nelke obtained a clerkship with the Honorable Mark M. Russello, of the Bergen County Superior Court.
Following his successful clerkship, Mr. Nelke worked for a defense firm representing insurance carriers, insureds and self-insureds in the investigation and litigation of both first and third-party claims in New Jersey and New York. For 11 years he managed and supervised a litigation practice group, defended insureds and insurers in jury and bench trials in NJ and NY and specialized in the investigation and prosecution of fraud claims.
Mr. Nelke presently represents insurance carriers, insureds, and self-insureds in the investigation and defense of both first and third-party claims. Mr. Nelke has also presented many seminars on topics such as Mysterious Disappearance claims, Insurance Fraud, Bad Faith, the Evolution of COVID-19 Litigation and its Coverage Implication, Peer to Peer Rentals, and Pre-suit investigations.
Georgina Cadillo Otoya
Georgina Cadillo Otoya is a Rutgers, Newark graduate. She has been with NJM for the last 5 years, and transition the SIU Department in 2019 as an Investigator. Prior to her role with the SIU, Georgina was Property Damage claims adjuster and assisted with training new employees at NJM Claims Department.
HEY OIFP, WHAT ARE YOU DOING?
Interim Insurance Fraud Prosecutor Al Garcia
DAG Crystal Callahan, Assistant Bureau Chief, Private Insurance Bureau
Robert McGrath, Bureau Chief, Case Screening, Litigation and Analytical Support Section (CLASS)
AAG Jennifer Stonerod, Counsel to the Insurance Fraud Prosecutor (Moderator)
Come meet leadership from the Office of the Insurance Fraud Prosecutor (OIFP) and learn who we are and what we have been doing! Through highlights of successful case referrals and prosecutions, attendees will leave with a better understanding of the workings of OIFP, the various types of cases we handle, what happens to your referrals, what make a successful case, and more. Learn how we can be a resource for you. Dedicated time will be allotted for a question and answer session, so stop by and get to know us!
Al Garcia has been a prosecutor for over 25 years. He started his prosecutorial career in 1992 at the Queens District Attorney’s Office in New York where he prosecuted thousands of cases and was later designated as a Special Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York (Brooklyn) where he prosecuted federally, including the performance of felony trials. He left the Queens DA’s Office in 1998 to work in-house as legal counsel for an insurance company for approximately two years where he performed all facets of legal insurance defense including civil jury trials. He then became an Assistant Prosecutor for the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office in 2001, where he served for 14 years.
As an Assistant Prosecutor in Mercer County, he investigated and prosecuted hundreds of matters, including the performance of Homicide trials. While at the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, he served as Chief of the Insurance Fraud Unit, Bias Unit, and Serious Collision Response Team, and served On Call for the Homicide Unit. He left the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office in 2015. From 2015 to 2018, Al served as Deputy Ethics Counsel for the Office of Attorney Ethics on behalf of the Supreme Court of New Jersey where he investigated and prosecuted attorneys for violations of the Rules of Professional Conduct.
In 2018, he resumed his prosecutorial career as the Deputy Insurance Fraud Prosecutor for the Office of the Insurance Fraud Prosecutor within the Office of the Attorney General for the State of New Jersey. In that capacity, he managed a staff of nearly 100 and bore responsibility for the day-to-day operations of the office.
Upon the departure of Insurance Fraud Prosecutor Tracy M. Thompson in November 2022, he was named Interim Insurance Fraud Prosecutor and holds this position to date.
Additionally, he is a long-time member of the Board of Bar Examiners for the State of New Jersey.
He graduated, cum laude, from Rutgers University – Newark College of Arts and Sciences with a BA in Political Science and earned his law degree from Rutgers Law School – Newark in 1992.
DAG Crystal Callahan is the Assistant Bureau Chief of Private Insurance in the Office of the Insurance Fraud Prosecutor. Ms. Callahan supervises the investigation and prosecution of a wide range of cases, including fraudulent insurance claims, premium avoidance schemes, and health care claims fraud. Ms. Callahan also supervises the Office’s participation in the Auto Theft Task Force, a joint initiative with the Division of Criminal Justice and the New Jersey State Police. Ms. Callahan began her legal career as a law clerk in the Administrative Office of the Courts before joining the Office of the Insurance Fraud Prosecutor. Ms. Callahan has tried several complex cases for the Office involving the submission of inflated health care claims and commercial bribery. Ms. Callahan holds a B.B.A. from Loyola University Maryland and a J.D. from Boston University.
Robert McGrath is the Bureau Chief for the Case Screening, Litigation and Analytical Support Section (CLASS) of the Office of the Insurance Fraud Prosecutor. The CLASS section of OIFP is responsible for case screening, intake, referrals, expungements, analytical support, and initial investigative efforts. Robert served as a Detective with the New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice for 25 years. During his over 30 years in law enforcement, Robert served in numerous units, including the Statewide Narcotics Task Force, Office of the Insurance Fraud Prosecutor, and the Official Corruption Bureau. Robert served as a Lieutenant overseeing the New Jersey Attorney General’s Shooting Response Team, as well as the Division’s Record and Identification Bureau. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from LaSalle University and a Master of Arts Degree from Rider University in Human Services Administration.
Assistant Attorney General Jennifer Stonerod is Counsel to the Insurance Fraud Prosecutor in the Office of the Insurance Fraud Prosecutor (“OIFP”), Division of Criminal Justice (“the Division”), New Jersey Office of the Attorney General. Jennifer earned both undergraduate and law degrees from Widener University. She was an Assistant Prosecutor in Burlington County before joining the Division, where she was assigned to the Appellate, Juvenile, and Domestic Violence Units and coordinated the County’s Domestic Violence Working Group. Prior to serving as an Assistant Prosecutor, Jennifer was an Associate Attorney at Parker McCay in their Medical Malpractice Department and law clerk to the Honorable Michael J. Hogan, J.S.C. (ret’d), in Burlington County.
Jennifer began at the Division in the Prosecutors Supervision & Training Bureau, where her portfolio included domestic violence, sexual violence, and juvenile justice. She was a Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutor, assisted on use of force trainings, handled issues specific to Conducted Energy Devices, including a state-wide grant, and was faculty to both the Undercover Narcotics Investigative Training (U.N.I.T.) School and Top Gun. Jennifer was the Domestic Violence and Sexual Violence Liaison to the County Prosecutors’ Offices, chaired the Division’s Domestic Violence Working Group, and revitalized the Division’s Sexual Violence Working Group. Jennifer trained across the State on domestic violence, including training recruits and Chiefs of Police. Notably, Jennifer established the Division’s Domestic Violence & Sexual Violence Symposium, an annual training for law enforcement, prosecutors, and victim advocates.
Promoted to Chief of Staff of the Division in 2017, Jenifer continued to serve on the Supreme Court Domestic Violence Working Group; Supreme Court Ad Hoc Committee on Domestic Violence; Working Group on Pro Bono Attorney Training Materials, which revised “Defending a Domestic Violence Contempt” Manual; and New Jersey’s legislatively created Task Force on Campus Sexual Assault. Jennifer served on the Division’s team that implemented and trained prosecutors and law enforcement throughout the State on Criminal Justice Reform and on the ODARA risk assessment tool. In 2016 and 2017, she received the Attorney General’s Award for Outstanding Contribution to a Special Project and in 2019, a Director’s Award for Division Impact- the same year she completed her term as President of the Burlington County Bar Association. Jennifer also was point on the 2020 Attorney General Directive Establishing Policies, Practices, and Procedures to Promote Juvenile Justice Reform.
For six years as Chief of Staff, Jennifer managed personnel, operational, and administrative functions, while overseeing various units and programs, such as the Open Public Records Act (OPRA) Unit; State Office of Victim Witness Advocacy; CODIS Compliance Unit; State Grand Jury; Grants & Program Development; State Office of the Medical Examiner; Victims of Crime Compensation Office; and the Intern Program. In 2023, Jennifer received an Attorney General Excellence Award for Victims’ Justice.
As Counsel to the Insurance Fraud Prosecutor, Jennifer is tasked with a variety of responsibilities to further OIFP’s mission -she implements new training initiatives, works with industry leaders, serves as a communications liaison, and assists with legal issues and programmatic areas. Jennifer continues to oversee the Division’s OPRA Counsel, Chairs the Fingerprint Compliance Committee and Subcommittee, and regularly teaches at the Division’s Training Academy.
HOW TO SPOT FAKE NJ MVC DOCUMENTS WITHIN SECONDS
Joe Vasil
This comprehensive course of instruction is designed to assist the investigator/law enforcement officer with the growing trend of the use of counterfeit NJ DMV documents (driver’s licenses & vehicle titles). Fraudsters have duplicated nearly every security feature on these documents making them virtually “undetectable”. This course will instruct the proper protocol to detect/identify these fakes “within seconds”. The course presentation will show examples of both genuine and counterfeit & altered NJ DMV documents.
Joe Vasil
Vasil ID Training, LLC
JOSEPH VASIL-FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR
JOSEPH VASIL-retired as Coordinator from NJMVC Fraudulent Document Training Unit in 2014 after 35 years of service as an internationally recognized expert in document fraud. In 2002, he was appointed to Head the NJ Attorney General/MVC Document Fraud Taskforce. Joe is a Certified Police Instructor and Certified expert witness in Federal and State Courts. Joe has trained NYPD, Newark JTTF, NJSP,NY/NJ Port Authority Police, along with many Federal,State and local police agencies over the past 25 years.
(609) 556-5203 Email-vasilidtraining@gmail.com
INVESTIGATOR’S GUIDE TO CLINIC VISITS
Frank Sztuk
John Sargent
Insurance fraud involving medical providers is a growing problem and the challenges with these type of investigations can cause SIU professionals to take unique and creative approaches to the case. This program will focus on the clinic visit. What is the right way to handle this most important function will be covered, as well as the mechanics of the process and the evidence needed to make the work meaningful. Upon completion the attendees will have a high level of confidence to properly handle these types of investigations.
John Sargent
John Sargent has joined Delta Group as Senior Vice President. John recently retired as the director, Special Investigation Unit (SIU) at MetLife, a position he held for over 15 years. He joined MetLife in 1995 and was named Director in 2004. During John’s 25 year tenure he supported the Auto & Home, Dental, Long-Term Care, Group Life and Short and Long-Term Disability products. John also volunteers in support of the industry and has served as the Co-Chair of the Coalition Against Insurance Fraud in Washington D.C.; the Vice Chair of the Board of Governors for the Insurance Fraud Bureau of Massachusetts and the past Chairperson and Board Director for the New York Alliance Against Insurance Fraud. He was also an advisor to the CEO of the National Insurance Crime Bureau providing counsel to that organization. John has presented on the topic of insurance fraud both domestically and internationally and is seen as an expert in the field. He began his professional career as a police officer in Massachusetts.
Francis X. (Frank) Sztuk
Frank is the Senior Vice President/Investigative Services for the Delta Group. His fraud fighting career began in 1972 as a police officer in NJ. He came to Delta after a rewarding 36-year career with the Hanover Insurance Company, where he developed the Special Investigation Unit Program at that company. He retired as the National SIU Strategist, responsible for oversight of one of the leading anti-fraud programs in the industry. He served on many boards and councils in his career, most notable being a past-Chair of the Massachusetts Insurance Fraud Bureau Governing Board. He is also a former Chair of the national Coalition Against Insurance Fraud, and still retains an advisory seat on the executive committee of CAIF. He is a past chair of the NY Alliance Against Insurance Fraud, where he still chairs the Public Outreach Committee of that organization. He sat on the NJ Insurance Commissioner’s Fraud Advisory Board and the NJ Insurance Council Anti-Fraud Committee. He has lectured both nationally and internationally on the subject of insurance fraud and continues to present at various programs such as the ISO/NICB Insurance Fraud Management Conference, the IASIU annual fraud conference, NJSIA Annual Fraud Conference as well as numerous local, state and national anti-fraud programs.
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