A public adjuster accused of stealing more than $100,000 from three South Florida seniors was arrested for the third time this year.

Bernard Benaim's arrest last week was for approaching homeowners about repairs and improvements, assuring them he could get money for the repairs. The state's chief financial officer said Benaim, 35, had the homeowners sign contracts that said they would give him 10 percent of the claim payment. Instead, the state said, Benaim pocketed all of the insurance money.

Public adjusters work for the insured, rather than insurance companies, to assess damage and help with claims for repairs.

The three victims, two from Broward and one from Miami-Dade, were all a least 72 years old.

Including previous arrests in May, Benaim has been charged with three counts of grand theft and three counts of exploitation of the elderly and faces over 100 years in prison if convicted of all charges, and he could lose his adjuster's license.

People who suspect they have been a victim of any type of insurance fraud can report it at www.MyFloridaCFO.com/fraud or by calling 800-378-0445. If you have questions about public adjusters, call 850-413-3089 or 877-MY-FL-CFO (877-693-5236).

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