According to the New York State Insurance Department, two Sharon Springs, N.Y. residents were arrested for their involvement in a fraudulent auto insurance claim. An investigation by the department led to the arrests of John J. Hickling and Trish L. Booth.
Booth allegedly drove her 2001 Dodge Durango into a ditch while driving without insurance in late December 2006. Her insurance had been cancelled due to nonpayment just days prior to the accident.
The insurance department's release said that the accident was not reported at the time; however, photos of the accident were reportedly posted on MySpace.com with the caption: "This is what happens when you drink and drive."
Hickling obtained insurance for the vehicle on Jan. 2, 2007, and filed a claim the next day. On Jan. 4, the insurance company's claim adjuster examined the car and determined that the Durango was totaled some time before it was reported because rust had already started to appear.
If convicted, Booth and Hickling face up to four years in prison.
Interested in more fraud news and in-depth articles? Head over to Claims' fraud channel for more information
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