RALEIGH – Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey announced on Wednesday of last week the arrest of Brenda Spruill Rascoe, 44, of 202 West Saluda Hall Road, Ahoskie. She is charged with one count each of insurance fraud and obtaining property by false pretense.

Department of Insurance criminal investigators accuse Rascoe of fraudulently claiming her vehicle caught fire with Allstate Insurance Company and obtaining a rental car that cost $899.43. Investigators allege Rascoe intentionally set the fire.

Rascoe was arrested on June 13 in Hertford County and was placed under a $2,000 bond.

“According to the FBI, insurance fraud costs the average family between $400 and $700 per year in the form of increased premiums,” said Commissioner Causey. “Consumer protection is my number one priority and I will continue to fight insurance fraud with your help.”

The Department of Insurance employs 20 sworn state law enforcement officers dedicated to investigating and prosecuting claims of insurance and bail bonding fraud.

To report suspected fraud, contact the Department of Insurance Criminal Investigations Division at 919-807-6840. Callers may remain anonymous. Information is also available at www.ncdoi.com.