36 Indicted in Alleged Insurance Fraud Scheme in Indiana

Federal prosecutors in Indiana have indicted 36 people in an insurance fraud scheme alleging they staged car crashes and filed false insurance claims.

The indictment alleges 56-year-old Michael W. Burris Sr., his 53-year-old wife, Lisa, and others planned a series of automobile crashes in the Evansville area.

U.S. Attorney Josh Minkler says the Burrises allegedly recruited people to participate in crashes and file false police reports and false insurance claims for self-inflicted or fabricated injuries.

Court documents say Michael Burris Sr. and his alleged conspirators punched the crash victims in the face and used a razor blade and wire brush to make it appear they had crash injuries.

The 36 suspects arrested on Nov. 10 face wire fraud, mail fraud and other charges.

Court records did not show an attorney for the Burrises.