January 28, 2025 | JacobiJournal.com — Fake Deer-Collision Claim: A South Carolina woman faces fraud charges after allegedly filing a false insurance claim, falsely stating that her car was damaged in a deer collision. Investigators uncovered inconsistencies in her claim, leading to her arrest.
Authorities say the investigation revealed that key evidence in Arthur’s claim did not align with the reported accident. Metadata from the submitted photos showed they were taken well before the alleged collision, and additional review of her vehicle’s history suggested the damage existed prior to the incident.
This case highlights how digital forensics and careful claims review are playing an increasingly important role in uncovering insurance fraud.
Insurance Fraud Uncovered
Queen Viola Arthur, 33, of Hartsville, reported to Progressive Insurance that she hit a deer, causing damage to her vehicle. However, Progressive denied her claim after metadata from the digital photographs she submitted revealed that the images were taken before the alleged accident and even before her policy began.
According to South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) investigators, who acted on behalf of the state Department of Insurance, the fraud attempt occurred in October 2023. Authorities arrested Arthur earlier this month, though she was later released on bond. Fake Deer-Collision Claim
Attempted Fraud and Legal Consequences
The arrest warrant stated that Arthur falsely claimed her vehicle had no prior unrepaired damage. By submitting the fraudulent claim for $2,014, she attempted to secure an undeserved financial payout. The warrant also noted that Arthur admitted to at least some of the allegations.
A Trend in Fake Animal Collision Claims
Arthur’s case follows a similar incident in California. Just two months earlier, four Los Angeles residents faced fraud charges after claiming a bear caused more than $141,000 in vehicle damage. Investigators later determined the “bear” was actually a person in a costume.
For the full report, refer to the South Carolina Department of Insurance.
FAQs: Fake Deer-Collision Claim Fraud
What is the South Carolina fake deer-collision claim about?
The fake deer-collision claim involved Queen Viola Arthur, who allegedly filed a false insurance report stating her car was damaged in a deer accident.
How did investigators uncover the fake deer-collision claim?
Investigators reviewed metadata from photos submitted with the claim and discovered they were taken before the alleged crash and before the policy began.
What penalties could result from the fake deer-collision claim fraud?
If convicted, the South Carolina woman could face fines, restitution, and possible jail time for attempting to defraud Progressive Insurance.
Are fake animal collision claims becoming more common?
Yes. The South Carolina fake deer-collision claim follows similar fraud attempts, including a California case where individuals staged a bear accident for $141,000.
What is the False Claims Act in South Carolina?
The False Claims Act allows the state to pursue legal action against individuals or businesses that knowingly submit false or fraudulent claims to obtain money from government programs or insurers. Filing a fake insurance claim, like the South Carolina deer-collision case, can fall under similar fraud statutes.
Is insurance fraud a felony in South Carolina?
Yes. Insurance fraud in South Carolina can be prosecuted as a felony, depending on the amount involved and the severity of the offense. Queen Viola Arthur faces potential fines, restitution, and possible jail time for allegedly submitting a false claim.
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