Neb. Man Gets Burned in Scam

Joseph Dubinsky of Nebraska was recently sentenced to a term of 12 months by the Honorable Richard Kopf, United States District Judge, following his conviction of mail fraud. He was also ordered to pay a $15,000.00 fine and to serve a 2-year term of supervised release following his release from incarceration.

On Oct. 29, 1999, a fire destroyed the Ponca Hills home of Joseph and Kimberly Dubinsky. At the time of the fire, the home was unoccupied and had been so for between one to two years.

In fact, the property had reportedly been cited for numerous code violations as a consequence of improper or incomplete renovations and additions to the home. The fire completely destroyed the residence as well as a detached garage.

Dubinsky submitted a loss claim with State Farm. The State Farm claims investigator suspected arson and subsequently contacted the State Fire Marshal.

An investigation revealed that Dubinsky had reportedly hired another individual, now deceased, to burn down the house to make the insurance claim with State Farm.

Dubinsky reportedly admitted to his actions in open court at the time of his plea of guilty.