Loris residents sentenced in insurance fraud case
COLUMBIA, S.C. – June 9, 2012 – A group of Loris residents pleaded no contest to insurance fraud charges for presenting a false claim for insurance payment.
Janet Wilson, Charles Wilson, Cora Pacheco, and Barbara Riggins were each sentenced to 30 days time-served, fined $1,500, and must complete 100 hours of community service for presenting a false claim for insurance payment for an amount less than $2,000.
In February 2010, Janet Wilson reported that her automobile had been damaged in North Carolina by a vehicle that left the scene of the incident. Charles Wilson, Cora Pacheco, and Barbara Riggins all reported injuries as passengers in the vehicle.
South Carolina Farm Bureau, the North Carolina Highway Patrol and traffic reconstructionists contributed to an investigation that determined that the vehicle damage was inconsistent with the events as reported by the passengers. A thorough investigation concluded that the accident was staged. The case was prosecuted by the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office.
Insurance fraud is an expensive and often a dangerous crime that results in increased insurance costs for every household. While the exact amount of fraud is difficult to determine, the Insurance Information Institute estimates that 10% of the insurance industries’ losses and adjustment expenses can be attributed to fraud.
To report suspected insurance fraud, call the Insurance Fraud Hotline at (888) 95-FRAUD (888-953-7283). Callers can remain anonymous.
For more information, contact the South Carolina Insurance News Service at 803-252-3455 or use our contact form.