Israeli authorities extradited Moshe "Sanny" Assoulin, 36, of Sherman Oaks, California, pursuant to a California warrant for his arrest for insurance fraud, grand theft, and identity theft and a federal warrant for possession for sale of MDMA, commonly known as "Ecstasy." Assoulin is an Israeli national who grew up in the San Fernando Valley and is the first Israeli national to be extradited on state charges under the extradition treaty between the U.S. and Israel.

"Insurance fraud is a serious crime with serious consequences for the perpetrator and serious costs for every honest Californian," said California Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner. "You can try to hide or escape to a foreign country, but we'll find you and bring you to justice."

The arrest warrant for Assoulin was issued in October 2005 as a result of an investigation by the California Department of Insurance (CDI). The agency discovered multiple fraudulent automobile insurance claims submitted to car rental companies and insurance companies in 2001 and 2002 by Assoulin, who acted as the ring leader, and co-conspirators. The total loss to various car rental companies and insurance companies was estimated at close to $500,000. Nine defendants have since pleaded guilty to various insurance-fraud-related charges in connection with the case known as "Operation Park & Wreck." Three additional suspects are still fugitives, and believed to be residing in Israel. The Los Angeles District Attorney's Office Auto Fraud Unit prosecuted the case.