3 Arrested in Georgia for Slip-And-Fall Fraud Scheme, 4th Suspect Sought

Three men were arrested last week for their participation in a staged accident ring operating in South Georgia, according to a statement from the Georgia Department of Insurance.

Insurance Commissioner Ralph Hudgens said arrest warrants were issued to Germain Baynard, 20, Ryan Law, 21, and Demetrius Lee, 22, each of Thomasville, Ga., who now face felony charges related to the crime.

Authorities are currently seeking a fourth suspect, Keronda Bell, 46, also of Thomasville.

Special Fraud Agents in Hudgens’ office and the National Insurance Crime Bureau alleged the men staged slip-and-fall accidents at various businesses in Brooks, Colquitt and Thomas counties. According to GADOI, the investigation revealed that Bell was the ringleader, planning the slip-and-falls and filing the fraudulent claims.

“My office will investigate all forms of insurance fraud,” said Hudgens. “Individuals who feel that they are above the law and file a false insurance claim will be arrested and prosecuted.”

Baynard, Law, and Lee were booked into the Thomas County Jail and later released on bond. The Associated Press reported Thursady that all were released on bond and that it was unclear if any of the accused has a lawyer.

Source: Georgia Department of Insurance