North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey today announced the arrest of Kathleen Michele Marino, 54, of 393 Cowell Loop Road, Bayboro. Marino was charged with insurance fraud, a felony.
Special agents with the Department of Insurance’s Criminal Investigations Division accuse Marino of filing an insurance claim with Progressive Insurance Co. for damage to her automobile that existed before she took out the policy. A claim for the same damage was filed with National General in November 2020, according to the arrest warrant.
The offense occurred on Jan. 17.
Marino was arrested on March 15 and released on a written promise to appear in court. She has a hearing in Pamlico County District Court on March 19.
“Insurance fraud hurts consumers; it costs North Carolina consumers nearly 20 cents on every dollar they pay in insurance premiums,” Commissioner Causey said. “That’s why I’ve more than doubled the number of special agents to crack down on fraud and other types of white-collar crime.”
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.