A policyholder submitted a $18,135.43 veterinary bill that immediately raised suspicion due to several inconsistencies, including misspelled words and missing dollar signs on the invoices. The insurer notified their contract SIU, Argus West Investigative Services, regarding the red flags.

Argus West SIU opened a potential fraud investigation and began their work. A background check confirmed the veterinarians were not associated with the reported clinic, and a site check revealed no veterinary office at the provided address. A search for the reported clinic, “Northern Colorado Veterinarians,” came up empty, and further investigation revealed a website under “NoCO” with doctored images of veterinarians from a legitimate Illinois clinic.

Based on these findings of reasonable belief fraud is or is about to occur, a law enforcement referral and prosecution package was submitted to the Colorado Attorney General’s office.

On March 11, 2025, the policyholder was charged with 22 felony counts, including Theft, Forgery, and Insurance Fraud. A warrant for the policyholder’s arrest has been issued, and Argus West SIU continues to work with law enforcement as the case progresses.

This case highlights the importance of diligent fraud detection and collaboration with law enforcement in protecting both policyholders and insurers from fraudulent activity. This case also illustrates the length to which all lines of insurance are vulnerable to fraud. Having an experienced SIU leads to prosecutions through meticulous and thorough documented investigations. The organized manner in which Argus West SIU submits their prosecution packages, allows for higher acceptance by law enforcement across the country with fraudsters being held accountable.