Oakland County Woman Charged with Insurance Fraud and Larceny
Media Contact: Laura Hall, (517) 290-3779, [email protected]
Consumer Hotline: 877-999-6442, Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 14, 2022
(LANSING, MICH) Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) Director Anita Fox announced today that an Oakland County woman charged with auto insurance fraud has been arraigned.
Cathy Rice, 60, of Bloomfield Hills, was arraigned on November 28 in Oakland County’s 48th District Court on the following felonies:
- one count of false pretenses $1,000 or more but less than $20,000, punishable by 5 years and/or $10,000, and
- one count of insurance–fraudulent acts, punishable by 4 years and/or $50,000.
“When insurance fraud is committed, everyone pays. Not only does the defrauded party suffer a loss, but fraud can drive up insurance premiums for all Michiganders,” said DIFS Director Anita Fox. “If you suspect insurance fraud, I urge you to report it online at Michgan.gov/ReportFraud2DIFS or by calling 877-999-6442 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.”
The complaint alleges that in 2020, Rice was paid over $12,000 for case management services to an auto accident survivor that were never provided. The DIFS Fraud Investigation Unit was assisted by the Bloomfield Township Police Department and the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office in this investigation.
Rice has a preliminary examination set for January 12, 2023.
The DIFS FIU investigates criminal and fraudulent activity related to the insurance and financial markets and DIFS works with the Attorney General and other law enforcement to investigate these cases and refer them for prosecution. Suspected insurance fraud can be reported to DIFS safely, easily and, in most cases, anonymously by calling 877-999-6442 or online by visiting DIFS' website.
The mission of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is to ensure access to safe and secure insurance and financial services fundamental for the opportunity, security, and success of Michigan residents, while fostering economic growth and sustainability in both industries. In addition, the Department provides consumer protection, outreach, and financial literacy and education services to Michigan residents. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/DIFS or follow the Department on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.
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