North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey today announced the arrest of Anthony M. Watson, 45, of 5606 Bringle Court, Raleigh. Watson was charged with insurance fraud, a felony.
According to the arrest warrant, Watson falsely told National General Insurance Co. that his vehicle had been stolen after the vehicle was involved in a collision.
The offense occurred between April 2 and May 6.
Watson was arrested on May 19 and given a $12,500 secured bond.
Fraud is felt every time consumers pay their insurance premiums. Commissioner Causey estimates fraud costs North Carolinians between 15 and 20 cents on every dollar paid on insurance premiums."Insurance fraud affects our economy. Not only does it damage insurance companies, it cheats businesses and consumers too," Commissioner Causey said. "This kind of white-collar crime is unacceptable. That's why I've doubled the number of Special Agents to investigate insurance fraud. Cracking down on fraud will put more money in the pockets of businesses and consumers."
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.gov/fraud-control.