RALEIGH, N.C., Jan. 14 -- The North Carolina Department of Insurance issued the following news release:

Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin today announced the arrest of Corinne Elizabeth Sylvester, 30, of 1188 Noahtown Road, Thomasville; she is charged with one felony count of obtaining property by false pretense.

Department of Insurance criminal investigators allege that Sylvester received approximately $974.77 in unearned commissions by submitting fraudulent and unsanctioned insurance applications in June 2010 while working as an insurance agent for AFLAC Insurance Company. Sylvester is accused of submitting applications on behalf of family members without their knowledge.

Sylvester was arrested on Jan. 10 with assistance from the Davidson County Sheriff's Office and released on a $500 secured bond.

The Department of Insurance employs 20 sworn state law enforcement officers dedicated to investigating and prosecuting claims of insurance and bail bonding fraud. Since Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin took office in 2009, criminal investigators have received more than 16,800 complaints, resulting in 720 arrests and 380 criminal convictions. These efforts have delivered more than $50 million in restitution and recoveries for victims.

An estimated 10 cents of every dollar paid in premiums goes toward the payment of fraudulent claims. To report suspected fraud, contact the Department of Insurance Criminal Investigations Division at 919-807-6840. Callers may remain anonymous. Information is also available at www.ncdoi.com.

TNS hc11-130115-4166884 StaffFurigay