Burlington Woman Charged With Insurance Fraud

RALEIGH, North Carolina, Dec. 20 -- The North Carolina Department of Insurance issued the following news release:

North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey today announced the arrest of Brittney Sydell Heyward, 30, of 1306 Cloverdale St., Burlington. Heyward was charged with felony insurance fraud and felony attempting to obtain property by false pretense.

According to the arrest warrant, Heyward submitted fictitious receipts to Homesite Insurance Co. in an attempt to obtain money on a homeowners insurance claim for a leaky roof. The offenses occurred between Sept. 16 and Nov. 16.

Special agents with the Department of Insurance's Criminal Investigations Division arrested Heyward on Dec. 6. She was given a $10,000 secured bond.

Insurance fraud costs American consumers approximately $80 billion dollars a year. According to Commissioner Causey, fraud costs North Carolinians between 15 and 20 cents of every dollar paid on insurance premiums -- and it's getting worse.

"I am determined to stem the tide of insurance fraud in this state in order to save residents money," said Commissioner Causey. "That's why I am dedicated to the mission of our NCDOI law enforcement officers who investigate and prosecute claims of insurance and bail bonding fraud."

To report suspected fraud, contact the N.C. Department of Insurance Criminal Investigations Division at 919-807-6840. Callers may remain anonymous. Information is also available at www.ncdoi.com.