Sacramento Man Allegedly Submits Fraudulent Documents To Support of Auto Claim

Sacramento, Calif., resident John M. Ford, 33, has been arrested on insurance fraud charges after an investigation by the state Department of Insurance’s (CDI) Fraud Division revealed Ford allegedly submitted altered documents to support his automobile insurance claim.

Ford was charged with one felony count of knowingly presenting a fraudulent insurance claim, and one felony count of presenting false or misleading statements in support of his insurance claim. He was booked into the Sacramento County Jail on $20,000 bail, CDI stated.

According to CDI investigators, on Oct. 7, 2004, Ford was rear-ended by another vehicle and allegedly sustained injuries as a result of the collision. He claimed he received treatment from various doctors and medical facilities for the injuries he sustained in the collision. Ford was required to provide proof of insurance in order to receive reimbursement for pain and suffering as well as medical treatments. However, subsequent investigation revealed that Ford submitted altered documents in support of his claim to the California State Automobile Association (CSAA) to receive monies he was not entitled to — a payout of $3,000 on this claim.

The continuing investigation is being conducted by CDI’s Fraud Division with assistance from CSAA’s Special Investigative Unit. The Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case.