Pittsboro woman accused of filing false insurance claims

Katina Faye Walker, 39, of the 1100 block of Thompson Street, is charged with one count each of insurance fraud and attempting to obtain property by false pretense, according to investigators with the state Department of Insurance.

Authorities said Walker filed claims with Geico insurance in March and October of last year for vandalism to her 2004 Dodge Stratus, and she was paid $4,097.11. She filed a third vandalism claim last March.

Geico representatives realized the damage was the same in all three claims and contacted criminal investigators with the Department of Insurance.

Walker was arrested on $2,000 unsecured bond. A court date is set for Aug. 27.

Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin said his office has received more than 14,000 complaints since 2009. There have been 602 arrests, 333 criminal convictions and more than 110 pending court cases. He said the cases have resulted in more than $48.5 million in restitution and recoveries for victims.

To report suspected fraud, call the Department of Insurance Criminal Investigations Division at 919-807-6840. Callers may remain anonymous.