North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey today announced the arrest of Annie Darlene Bell, 49, of 900 N. Virginia St., Goldsboro. Bell was charged with felony insurance fraud.
According to the arrest warrant, Bell added a 2008 Acura to a Progressive Insurance Co. auto policy knowing that damage to the car occurred before the addition was made. The offense occurred between Nov. 12, 2018, and Dec. 12, 2018.
Special Agents with the Department of Insurance's Criminal Investigations Division arrested Bell on Jan. 15. She was given a $5,000 unsecured bond.
Fraud is felt every time consumers pay their insurance premiums. Commissioner Causey estimates fraud costs North Carolinians between 15 and 20 cents on every dollar paid on insurance premiums.
"Insurance fraud affects our economy. Not only does it damage insurance companies, it cheats businesses and consumers too," Commissioner Causey said. "This kind of white-collar crime is unacceptable. That's why I've doubled the number of Special Agents to investigate insurance fraud. Cracking down on fraud will put more money in the pockets of businesses and consumers."
To report suspected fraud, contact the N.C. Department of Insurance Criminal Investigations Division at 919-807-6840. Callers may remain anonymous. Information is also available at www.ncdoi.gov/fraud-control.