Hartford Says Amen to a Holy Man’s Unholy Claim
By Robert Warne - July 17, 2003 Just when it seems the news out of Berkeley has lost its ability to shock and surprise, a minister ends up reaping legal damnation from the California Department of Insurance (CDI) for 17 felony counts of insurance fraud and grand theft.
On Monday, July 14, Pastor Charles Lincoln Hopkins reported to Contra Costa County authorities after a $250,000 bail warrant for his arrest was issued.
Hopkins was injured in 1995 while working as a mechanic for the City of Berkeley. As a result of the injury he applied for and received a disability retirement. During the application process, Hopkins asserted that he was 100 percent disabled and ubale to perform any type of job.
He also certified that he was not receiving any "wages, salary or remuneration" outside of his job with the city.
Hartford Insurance Company, which issued the policy, reviewed the case and reported to CDI that Hopkins was working as a pastor. Further investigation by the Department uncovered evidence showing that Hopkins had been employed and paid as a pastor since at least 1995, and that he had previously held the same position at another Oakland church.
Hopkins was released on his on recognizance after he pled not guilty.
The Contra Costa District Attorney's Office is prosecuting the case. So whatever the outcome may be, the minister stands to gain some good sermon material as a result of the current trial and tribulations he’s sure to face.
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