North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey today announced the arrest of Chad Steven Neiswonger, 42, of 621 Cameron St., Burlington. Neiswonger was charged with three counts of insurance fraud and three counts of attempting to obtain property by false pretense, all felonies.
According to the arrest warrant, Neiswonger submitted altered medical bills totaling $20,388.06 from Moses Cone and UNC to Jefferson Insurance Co. between July 23, 2018, and Nov. 1, 2018.
Special Agents with the Department of Insurance's Criminal Investigations Division, along with Burlington police, arrested Neiswonger on May 7. He was given a $10,000 unsecured bond pending a May 30 appearance in Alamance 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.