Nash County Couple Accused of Filing Duplicate Claim
Targeted News Service (Press Releases)
RALEIGH, N.C., Nov. 17 -- The North Carolina Department of Insurance issued the following news release:
Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin today announced the arrest of Keith Hedgepeth, 48, and Sharon Hedgepeth, 48, of 109 Surry Road, Nashville; each is charged with one count of insurance fraud and obtaining property by false pretense.
Department of Insurance criminal investigators accuse Mr. and Mrs. Hedgepeth of filing a duplicate automobile claim with NC Farm Bureau they had already filed with GEICO Insurance Company. Investigators allege the couple intentionally mislead NC Farm Bureau to obtain additional payment for their damaged vehicle.
Keith Hedgepeth and Sharon Hedgepeth were arrested on Nov. 10 in Wilson County and signed written promises to appear in court.
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 made more than 1,500 arrests, resulting in more than 750 criminal convictions with more than 250 cases currently pending court. These efforts have delivered more than $72.1 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.
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