North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey today announced the arrest of Shawntel Gonzalez, 29, of 506 S. Mineral Springs Drive, Jonesville. Gonzalez was charged with felony insurance fraud.
According to the arrest warrant, Gonzalez provided Assurant Insurance Co. with a fraudulent lease as a part of an insurance liability claim involving a structure fire.
The offense occurred between Oct. 18, 2018, and Dec. 18, 2018.
Special Agents with the Department of Insurance’s Criminal Investigations Division and Yadkin County deputies arrested Gonzalez on March 8. She was given a $1,500 secured bond pending a March 20 appearance in Yadkin County District Court.
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.