Dennis Flaherty, a 74-year-old insurance public adjuster from Bettendorf, Iowa, has been charged with forgery and identity theft, according to the Iowa Insurance Division. The charges come after an investigation that began in August 2024 revealed Flaherty allegedly forged signatures on insurance checks from his clients and their banks. He then reportedly deposited these checks into his business account without permission.
Flaherty faces one count of forgery, which is a Class D felony, and three counts of identity theft, classified as Class C felonies. Following the charges, he was arrested on July 2, 2025, and held at Scott County Jail. He was later released after posting a $35,000 bond.
This isn’t the first time Flaherty has faced trouble. Back in September 2010, the Iowa Insurance Division took action against him for working as a public adjuster without a license. He paid a $3,250 fine and had his license reinstated the following year in 2011.
The investigation and charges highlight ongoing efforts by the Iowa Insurance Division to crack down on fraud in the insurance industry and protect consumers from dishonest practices. Flaherty’s case is now in the hands of the courts as authorities continue to uncover the full extent of the alleged fraud.