North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey today announced that Alman Michael Coleman, 42, of 4710 Crestfield Road, Summerfield, was charged with insurance fraud and obtaining property by false pretense, both felonies.
According to the criminal summons, Coleman altered an unemployment claim form on three occasions to obtain $1,105.25 in benefits.
The offenses occurred between June 1, 2018, and Dec. 31, 2018.
Special Agents with the Department of Insurance's Criminal Investigations Division served a criminal summons on Coleman on May 24. He is due in Guilford County District Court on June 24.
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.