New Jersey Public Adjusting Firm, Owner Admit Insurance Fraud

State authorities say a Monmouth County-based public adjusting company has admitted submitting fraudulent insurance claims in an attempt to defraud a New Jersey-based insurer out of more than $15,000.

Long Branch-based Northeast Claims Group recently pleaded guilty to second-degree insurance fraud. The firm also agreed to be dissolved and have its state public adjuster license revoked.

A public adjuster is an intermediary between an insured and their insurance company. The adjuster is hired by an insured after they suffer losses.

The company was also fined $7,500 criminal fine and its owner, 40-year-old Joseph Shammah of West Long Branch agreed to have his public adjuster’s license revoked. Shammah was allowed to enter a pretrial program, meaning the charge would be dismissed if he successfully completes the program.