Buried Motorcycle Leads to Alleged Insurance Fraud 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 Peter Jay Raposa, 44, of 224 Asheland Road, Ellenboro; he is charged with one count of insurance fraud.

Investigators allege that in February 2006, Raposa reported his 2005 Harley Davidson custom motorcycle stolen and filed a claim with Nationwide Insurance. The claim was settled with a $25,000 payment to the lien holder, First Citizens Bank, and a $4,000 payment to Raposa. In January 2012, the motorcycle was found buried on property where Raposa lived in 2006. The current property owner was having grading work done when her contractor discovered the motorcycle.

Raposa was arrested on March 22 in Polk County and released by the magistrate after posting the $2,500 bond. He is expected to return to court on April 11.

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-MJ88-3817794 StaffFurigay