Two Claims Lead to Charlotte Man’s Arrest on Insurance Fraud Allegations

RALEIGH, N.C., May 23 -- The North Carolina Department of Insurance issued the following news release:

Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin today announced the arrest of Chavannes Jean Baptiste, 34, of 8806 Belle Bragg Way, Charlotte; he was charged with one count each of insurance fraud and obtaining property by false pretense.

Department of Insurance criminal investigators accuse Baptiste of filing two insurance claims with separate insurance companies for damage to his vehicle as a result of a single accident. Baptiste was allegedly paid $867.36 by Safeco Insurance Company after he had already filed an insurance claim for the same property damage with GEICO.

Baptiste turned himself in to the Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office on May 20 and was placed under a $2,500 secured bond.

The Department of Insurance employs 20 sworn state law enforcement officers dedicated to investigating and prosecuting claims of insurance and bail bonding fraud. Since Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin took office in 2009, criminal investigators have received more than 16,800 complaints, resulting in 720 arrests and 380 criminal convictions. These efforts have delivered more than $50 million in restitution and recoveries for victims.

An estimated 10 cents of every dollar paid in premiums goes toward the payment of fraudulent claims. To report suspected fraud, contact the Department of Insurance Criminal Investigations Division at 919-807-6840. Callers may remain anonymous. Information is also available at www.ncdoi.com.

TNS MGD-130524-JF78-4362013 StaffFurigay