Florida authorities have disclosed additional arrests in a sophisticated insurance licensing fraud scheme in Miami-Dade, which involves Cuban nationals. This elaborate plot allegedly manipulated online exams to illegally procure insurance licenses.
Among those recently apprehended are Darwin José Ayala, 39, from Doral, and Zurisadairis Salazar, 36, from Miramar. Both individuals face charges of organized fraud and extortion, according to reports from América TeVé.
The D&R Academy Connection
The investigation centers around D&R Academy, a business located in Virginia Gardens. Its owner, Diana Nodarse Cruz, 36, along with her husband, Rainier Miguel Salas, 59, are accused of orchestrating the fraudulent operation. Their son, Rainier Alexander Salas, 27, has also been detained for similar charges.
Financial Gains and Technological Manipulation
Investigators revealed that the suspects charged between $400 and $2,000 to ensure applicants passed mandatory exams without meeting legal requirements. The scheme employed technology, including wireless devices, to manipulate online examinations. More than 820 exams were compromised from 2021 to 2024.
Investigative Breakthroughs and Cooperation
Other individuals involved include Jaroslav Verner, 32, from Alpharetta, Georgia, and Karla Lit Peralta, 26, from Miami Gardens. Peralta has begun cooperating with authorities, providing crucial insights into the case.
The probe was initiated following an audit that uncovered irregularities in the state-contracted Pearson VUE evaluation system. Nodarse, the primary suspect, remains detained at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center (TGK) with a bail set at $12,500, contingent upon proving the funds' legitimate origin.
Ayala and Salazar, the most recent detainees, are also held at the TGK. Ayala's bail is set at $21,000, while Salazar needs to post $20,000.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not ruled out the possibility of further arrests.
Miami-Dade Insurance Fraud Investigation FAQs
What was the method used to manipulate the insurance exams?
The scheme used wireless devices and other technology to tamper with online exams, ensuring applicants passed without fulfilling the necessary legal requirements.
Who are the main suspects in the Miami-Dade insurance fraud case?
The primary suspects include Diana Nodarse Cruz, her husband Rainier Miguel Salas, and their son Rainier Alexander Salas, who operated the scheme through D&R Academy.
How were the fraud activities discovered?
The fraudulent activities came to light following an audit that identified irregularities in the Pearson VUE evaluation system, prompting a detailed investigation.