Alleged Name Switch on Homeowner’s Policy Leads to Arrest

RALEIGH, N.C., March 26 -- The North Carolina Department of Insurance issued the following news release:

Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin today announced the arrest of Antwanne Lashawn Woods, 30, of 913 S. English St., Greensboro; he is charged with one count each of insurance fraud and attempting to obtain property by false pretense.

Department of Insurance criminal investigators allege that on Aug. 19, 2011, after Nationwide Mutual Insurance chose not to renew his homeowner's insurance policy, Woods purchased another policy from the company online using the name "Antoine Woods" and a false date of birth and social security number.

On Oct. 16, 2011, Woods filed a theft claim with Nationwide in the amount of $2,248 for an alleged burglary at his residence. Woods allegedly contacted the insurance company on Oct. 19, 2011, requesting that the spelling of his name and date of birth be corrected. When a Nationwide representative confronted him and requested proof of identity, Woods voluntarily withdrew his insurance claim.

Woods was arrested on March 22 in Guilford County and held on a $10,001.00 secured bond. His next court date is scheduled for April 23, 2012.

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 hc11-120327-JF78-3820004 StaffFurigay