Related Federal Cases
- Jeffrey Phares, Cemetery Fraud, West Virginia, 2023 · Virginia
- Gabriele Wohl Deploys Election Fraud Task Force, West Virginia, 2016 · Virginia
- Bradley Temple, Unlawful Money Transactions, West Virginia, 2023 · Virginia
- Nitesh Ratnakar, Tax Evasion, West Virginia, 2023 · Virginia
- Jeffery Hall Sentenced to 2 Years for Mail Fraud, Orlando FL, 2023 · Virginia
Mail Fraud Scandal Rocks West Virginia
In a shocking turn of events, eight individuals have been charged with federal mail fraud in West Virginia’s North Central region. According to Acting United States Attorney Betsy Steinfeld Jividen, the defendants allegedly conspired to file false insurance claims totaling approximately $249,000 for staged vehicular accidents in Harrison, Taylor and Marion Counties from January 2012 to August 2014.
The indictment, handed down today, accuses the group of orchestrating a complex scheme to defraud insurance companies. The defendants, who hail from Clarksburg, Fairmont, and Morgantown, are accused of staging vehicular accidents and filing false claims to collect insurance payouts.
The defendants named in the indictment include:
- Dallas Lewis, 55, Clarksburg, WV
- Martin Stoneking, 25, Fairmont, WV
- Charles Bonner, 34, Morgantown, WV
- Bryce Martin, 26, Fairmont, WV
- Eric Warner, 34, Clarksburg, WV
- Chasity Costilow, 38, Clarksburg, WV
- Robin Stoneking, 56, Fairmont, WV
- Michael Sine, 34, Fairmont, WV
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar is handling the cases on behalf of the government. The West Virginia Insurance Commission Office of Inspector General and the United States Postal Inspection Service are investigating the matter.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The investigation into this complex scheme has been ongoing for several years, and the indictment marks a significant development in the case. As the investigation continues, it is likely that more information will come to light about the scope and extent of the defendants’ alleged crimes.
The case serves as a reminder of the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions, particularly when it comes to financial crimes. As the community comes to terms with the allegations, it is essential to remember that the defendants are innocent until proven guilty.
The outcome of this case will undoubtedly have significant implications for the community, and it is essential to stay informed about the developments as they unfold.
Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
