North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey today announced the arrest of Tanea Aisha Ezell, 27, of 4850 Millsview Court, Raleigh. Ezell 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 Ezell of attempting to collect on a claim with Progressive Southeastern Insurance Co. by falsely reporting that her 2015 Honda Civic was stolen.
The offenses occurred between Feb. 21 and March 20.
Ezell was arrested on April 6 and given a $7,500 secured bond.
“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.