By: Jay Feldman
Many people may not realize that insurance crimes can indirectly cost each U.S. resident a significant amount annually. This staggering statistic is just one of the many revelations in YOU PAID FOR THIS—Richard Wickliffe’s first foray into non-fiction. In this eye-opening book, Wickliffe sheds light on the shadowy world of insurance fraud, a realm that remains largely invisible but impacts everyone. Drawing from his 25 years of investigative experience, the author offers a captivating exploration of Miami’s underworld, where Special Investigation Units (SIUs) uncover crimes that range from the mundane to the macabre.
The book starts by clarifying basic insurance concepts, providing a foundation for readers to grasp the complexities of insurance fraud. It then delves into a range of cases, from routine burglaries to elaborate schemes involving art theft, arson, and more. The author, Wickliffe, doesn’t just share these stories; he immerses readers into scenarios involving various forms of organized crime, including activities linked to the Russian mob and human trafficking. The narrative includes detailed explorations of elaborate frauds, such as individuals staging their own deaths and the discovery of submerged vehicles linked to crimes, presenting a broad view of the challenges faced by those investigating insurance fraud.
The book covers the Miami Pain & Gain double murder case, detailing events of kidnapping, extortion, and serious injury that led to a significant criminal trial in Miami-Dade. The author, Wickliffe, strives for accuracy and includes perspectives from Marcelo Schiller, the case’s only surviving victim. Schiller provides a detailed account of his experiences, which offers readers an in-depth look at the challenges faced during the case, highlighting this chapter as particularly impactful in the book.
What sets YOU PAID FOR THIS apart from other true crime books is its tone. Wickliffe manages to infuse the narrative with wit and humor, making the book not just an exposé but also an engaging read. His storytelling style ensures that readers are not only informed but entertained, making the book a must-read for anyone interested in true crime, insurance fraud, or just a good story.
With over two decades of managing SIU teams for the U.S.’s largest insurance carrier, Wickliffe is no stranger to complex and creative crimes. His expertise is widely recognized, and he frequently shares his knowledge at national conferences on fraud, cybercrimes, and insurance litigation. His contributions to the field have earned prestigious accolades, including the FBI’s Exceptional Service in the Public Interest Award. An accomplished crime fiction author as well, one of Wickliffe’s thrillers was even optioned by 20th Century Fox for a potential film adaptation.
To further engage with his audience, Wickliffe maintains an active presence on social media, where he shares insights, updates, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into his work. Readers can connect with him through his website (www.RichWickliffe.com), LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/richard-wickliffe/), and Facebook (www.facebook.com/Rich-Wickliffe-Author-Page-100064189443698/).
YOU PAID FOR THIS – My 25 Years Investigating Insurance Crimes is available in all formats, including Audible, at your favorite bookseller or through Amazon at: https://a.co/d/2bBntJa
Published by: Nelly Chavez
