North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey today announced the arrest of Chance Blake, 23, of 241 Tricycle Hill Lane, Lexington. Blake was charged with insurance fraud and attempting to obtain property by false pretense, both felonies.
Special Agents with the Department of Insurance’s Criminal Investigations Division accuse Blake of attempting to obtain money from a Geico auto policy after conspiring with someone else to have his 2017 Jeep Renegade taken and burned.
In addition, Davidson County deputies charged Blake with filing a false police report, burning of personal property, and conspiracy.
The offenses occurred between July 9 and Aug. 21.
Blake was arrested on Nov. 21 and released on a $50,000 unsecured bond pending a Jan. 6, 2020, date in Davidson 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.