Second person arrested in connection to insurance fraud

Jan. 30--A Jacksonville woman is the second person accused in connection to what officials say is a false insurance claim over a non-existent home fire.

Lachelle Elaine Grice, 35, of Selena Drive in Jacksonville was arrested Jan. 27 by the Onslow County Sheriff's Office and charged with insurance fraud and attempting to obtain property by a false pretense.

Grice is accused of attempting to obtain $17,390 from Assurant Insurance by providing a false claim that a fire had occurred at her home, resulting in $9,250 in personal damage and $8,140 in damage to the residence, warrants said.

According to previous Daily News reports, Kevin Junior Grice Jr., 34, of Serena Drive in Jacksonville was arrested Jan. 20 by the Onslow County Sheriff's Office and charged with insurance fraud and attempting to obtain property by false pretense as well.

Lachelle Grice's arrest is associated with the arrest of Grice Jr., who is her brother, Major Chris Thomas with the sheriff's office, said.

"She assisted with him in committing a fraudulent insurance claim," Thomas said.

According to previous Daily News reports, Grice Jr. told the insurance company the fire happened on Oct. 21, 2015, but the photos he submitted were taken on Nov. 21, 2005.

Lachelle Grice's unsecured bond was set at $15,000. She was scheduled for her first hearing in connection to the fraud charges in district court on Monday. Grice Jr. has a court date scheduled Feb. 13, according to the N.C. Court Court System.

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