NC Investigation Leads To Insurance Fraud Arrests

RALEIGH, N.C., Oct. 15 -- The North Carolina Department of Insurance issued the following news release:

Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin today announced the arrests of Ronnie Earl Locklear Jr., 35, of 301 Newgate St., Lumberton; and Michael Andrew Currie, 49, of 176 Nealy St., Lumberton.

Locklear was charged with one count each of insurance fraud, felony conspiracy to commit insurance fraud, obtaining property by false pretense, felony conspiracy to obtain property by false pretense, and making a false report to a police station.

Currie was charged with one count each of insurance fraud, felony conspiracy to commit insurance fraud, obtaining property by false pretense, felony conspiracy to obtain property by false pretense, and altering a vehicle serial number.

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 hc11-121016-JF78-4070161 StaffFurigay