Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey today announced the arrest of Stephanie Candelaria, 32, of 16 Parker Fork Road, Corapeake; she is charged with one count of insurance fraud.
Department of Insurance criminal investigators accuse Candelaria of fraudulently claiming her vehicle was stolen with National General Insurance Company in December 2016. Investigators allege Candelaria wrecked the vehicle and knew it was not stolen.
Candelaria was arrested on March 20 in Gates County and released under a promise to appear in court.
"According to the FBI, insurance fraud costs the average family between $400 and $700 per year in the form of increased premiums,” said Causey. “Consumer protection is my number one priority as your Insurance Commissioner and I will continue to fight insurance fraud with your help.”
An estimated 10 cents of every dollar paid in premiums goes toward the payment of fraudulent claims. The Department of Insurance employs 20 sworn state law enforcement officers dedicated to investigating and prosecuting claims of insurance and bail bonding fraud. To report suspected fraud, contact the Department of Insurance Criminal Investigations Division at 919-807-6840. Callers may remain anonymous. Information is also available at www.ncdoi.gov/fraud-control.