Fuquay-Varina Agent Caught in Alleged Vehicle Title Scam

RALEIGH, N.C., Feb. 6 -- The North Carolina Department of Insurance issued the following news release:

Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin today announced the arrest of Dalia Soto Urbina, 42, of 35 Good Circle, Fuquay-Varina; she is charged with 25 counts of obtaining property by false pretense.

Investigators allege that Urbina - while acting as a licensed insurance agent and part owner/operator of J and D Insurance Company in Angier - notarized vehicle titles and misrepresented that insurance binders had been issued on vehicles when they had not. In addition, investigators allege that Urbina was not authorized to write insurance for the companies for which she claimed to provide binders. The investigation is ongoing and more charges are pending.

Urbina was arrested on Feb. 3 at the Harnett County Court House and is being held under a $500,000 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 13,500 complaints, resulting in 575 arrests, 320 criminal convictions, and more than 109 cases currently pending a court appearance. These arrests have resulted in more than $47.9 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 on the Department of Insurance website. (http://www.ncdoi.com/)

TNS hc11-120207-JF78-3765949 StaffFurigay