Man arrested over alleged 650-sheep theft insurance fraud
© Tim Scrivener A 24-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of fraud after an investigation into insurance claims involving the alleged theft of more than 650 sheep in Devon.
The City of London Police’s Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED) is investigating three claims made within 12 months under an insurance policy covering sheep kept on rented fields.
Investigators believe the thefts may not have taken place and documents submitted in support of the claims may have been fraudulent.
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Two claims resulted in payouts totalling £28,220, while a third claim for £64,800 was not paid following intervention by IFED and the insurance industry.
The case was initially referred by an insurer to the Rural Crime Agency before being passed to IFED.
Officers carried out a warrant at an address in South Molton on 13 October, searching two residential addresses, a garage and two vehicles.
Documents relevant to the investigation and a mobile phone were seized. Two shotguns were also recovered after officers identified breaches of licensing conditions.
Officers and veterinary professionals checked the welfare of the sheep and compared their numbers against records held by the Rural Payments Agency (RPA). All the animals were found alive and well.
The man was arrested on suspicion of fraud by false representation and making or supplying articles for use in fraud. He has been released under investigation.
Threat to genuine insurers
Det Con Carley Parodi, of IFED, said rural insurance fraud could have a significant impact on insurers and genuine customers.
She warned that fraudulent claims distort insurers’ assessment of risk and can contribute to higher premiums for honest policyholders.
National Rural Crime Network chairman Tim Passmore said livestock insurance fraud harms rural businesses and increases costs for honest policyholders.
The investigation remains ongoing, and the allegations have not been proved.