Alleged Auto Insurance Fraud Leads to Polk County Arrest

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

Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin today announced the arrest of Judy Ann Mills, 51, of 425 Rockwood Lane, Tryon; she is charged with one count of insurance fraud.

Investigators allege that Mills filed a claim with GEICO Insurance stating that her 2008 Acura TL was damaged when an unidentified vehicle ran her off the road. GEICO paid more than $6,000 to repair the vehicle. Witnesses later reported to investigators that Mills actually struck a fence on private property while driving impaired.

Mills was arrested on March 22 in Polk County and released by the magistrate upon her written promise to appear in court on March 28.

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 14,000 complaints, resulting in 602 arrests, 333 criminal convictions and more than 110 pending court cases. These efforts have delivered more than $48.5 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 hc11-120324-MJ88-3817810 StaffFurigay