Original Source:  NPR

Fraud and Misrepresentation Are Losing Propositions

A recent investigation by the California Department of Insurance, dubbed "Operation Bear Claw," uncovered a bizarre insurance scam involving a life-sized bear costume. Four Los Angeles residents, Ruben Tamrazian, 26; Ararat Chirkinian, 39; Vahe Muradkhanyan, 32; and Alfiya Zuckerman, 39, were arrested and charged with insurance fraud and conspiracy after allegedly staging bear attacks on their vehicles to secure a six-figure payout. The scam began in January when the suspects claimed a bear entered their 2010 Rolls Royce Ghost, causing interior damage while parked in Lake Arrowhead, a region known for its large black bear population. They provided video footage showing a furry figure entering the car, climbing around, and crawling out, leaving scratch marks on the leather seats and door. However, upon closer scrutiny, investigators determined the "bear" was actually a person in a bear costume.

Further investigation revealed two more claims involving the same suspects, same date, and location, but with different cars: a 2015 Mercedes G63 AMG and a 2022 Mercedes E350. The suspects provided similar video footage, but authorities remained skeptical. To verify the authenticity of the claims, the Department consulted a biologist from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, who confirmed that the "bear" was indeed a human in a bear suit. The biologist's expertise was crucial in debunking the scam, as black bears in California can be found in various shades, including brown and tan, but the costume's light brown color was a giveaway. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife played a significant role in helping the authorities uncover the truth, showcasing their importance in preventing wildlife-related crimes. The suspects' alleged scam cost three insurance companies $141,839.

Innovative Mortgage Services, Inc.'s Thoughtful Approach

At Innovative Mortgage Services, Inc., we take a thoughtful approach to loan fraud and misrepresentation. We understand that catching red flags is crucial to preventing mortgage fraud. Our team of experts reviews and audits each transaction for red flags, and our system alerts us to potential issues, leading to a deeper file review and checks. We also complete random file audits to ensure that our processes are effective, and we train and empower our processors and loan originators to recognize red flags.

Our approach includes:

• Catching Red Flags: We review and audit each and every transaction for red flags to varying degrees.
• Red Flag Alerts: Our system alerts us to potential issues, leading to a deeper file review and checks.
• Random File Audits: We complete random file audits to ensure that our processes are effective.
• Training and Support: We train, empower, and inform our processors and loan originators to recognize red flags.
• Proactive Approach: Our approach enables us to keep costs and expenses from loan fraud and misrepresentation to a minimum.

Benefits of Our Approach

By taking a proactive approach to mortgage fraud, we're able to:

• Aggressively Compensate Originators: We keep costs and expenses low, enabling us to compensate our originators aggressively.
• Maintain Outstanding Relationships: Our approach helps us maintain outstanding relationships with investors and lenders.
• Remain Compliant: We ensure that we remain compliant with all state and federal requirements.

Join Innovative Mortgage Services, Inc. today and benefit from our awareness and prevention efforts to loan fraud and misrepresentation.