North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey today announced the arrest of Garrett Scarlette, 26, of 3830 Cunningham Road, Thomasville. Scarlette is 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 Scarlette of attempting to collect money from the driver of a car that wrecked in Guilford County for the cleanup of motor vehicle fluid that was not authorized. He is also accused of trying to collect on a claim with North Carolina Farm Bureau Insurance Co. for the same unauthorized roadside cleanup.
The offenses occurred on Nov. 4, 2020.
Special agents arrested Scarlette on March 9. He is scheduled to appear in Davidson County District Court on March 16.
"It troubles me that some people think insurance fraud is a victimless crime," Commissioner Causey said. "Nearly 20 cents of every insurance premium dollar goes to cover the cost of insurance fraud. Consumers are the real victims of this kind of criminal behavior.”
Over the past three years, CID Special Agents recovered nearly $12 million used in fraudulent activities. That money has been returned to consumers and insurance companies. The restitution also helps preserve insurance rates.
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.