North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey today announced the arrest of Malaysia Harris, 25, of 433 Graham St., Albemarle. Harris was charged with one felony count of insurance fraud and one felony count of attempting to obtain property by false pretense.
Harris is accused of making false statements to Farmers Insurance Company in support of a claim for payment on a renter’s insurance policy. She is also accused of altering documents in support of the claim.
According to a warrant, the actions occurred between Oct. 16, 2017, and Feb. 2, 2018. Harris was arrested on Feb. 25, 2018, in Iredell County and placed under a $5,000 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 Investigation Division at 919-807-6840. Callers may remain anonymous. Information is also available at www.ncdoi.gov/fraud-control.