North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey today announced the arrest of Jeneva Powell, 25, of 578 Island Creek Road, Castle Hayne. Powell was charged with felony insurance fraud.
Special Agents with the Department of Insurance's Criminal Investigations Division accuse Powell of falsely reporting to Nationwide Insurance Co. the details of how damage occurred to her SUV when, in fact, the damage was the result of an argument between Powell and her boyfriend.
According to the arrest warrant, the offense occurred on Nov. 1, 2018.
Powell was arrested on March 14. An Onslow County magistrate gave Powell a $2,800 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.