North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey on Friday announced the arrest of Wendi Barton Willoughby, 58, of Kill Devil Hills. She has been charged with insurance fraud and obtaining property by false pretense, both felonies.

Special agents with the North Carolina Department of Insurance’s Criminal Investigations Division arrested Willoughby on July 9 following a two month investigation. She is accused of filing 120 claims with Aflac for her husband and dependents for doctors’ visits that never occurred, according to information from DOI. Willoughby was released on a written promise to appear in court.

According to the arrest warrant, Willoughby received $6,695 from filing the fraudulent claims. The offenses occurred between July 1, 2008 and July 8, 2019.

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.com. 

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