North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey today announced the arrest of Noelia Castillo, 43, of 644 Tart Town Road, Dunn. Castillo was charged with felony insurance fraud.
Special Agents with the Department of Insurance's Criminal Investigations Division accuse Castillo of filing a claim with National General Insurance Co. for damage to her 2012 GMC Yukon, knowing that the damage was present when the car was purchased.
According to the arrest warrant, the offense occurred between May 13 and July 16.
Castillo was arrested on July 22 and released under $5,000 unsecured bond pending an Aug. 8 appearance in Johnston 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.