The Virginia State Police Insurance Fraud Program (IFP) remains committed to its mission to reduce insurance fraud in the Commonwealth. Fighting insurance fraud requires a team effort—IFP special agents and analysts, the insurance industry, commonwealth’s attorneys and law enforcement must work together. In 2021, IFP focused on enhancing relationships with our partners through the Fraud Fighters Awards, professional education and special recognition efforts.

Professional education and training remain the hallmark of IFP’s work. Restrictions of COVID-19 once again challenged us to be innovative, and this year, both VA IASIU’s Annual Fraud Seminar and Red Flag Training were offered virtually, with more than 200 fraud fighters participating.

Although we were unable to engage in community outreach programs due to the pandemic, we continued to deploy targeted advertising campaigns, public relations and social media messaging. We focused on educating the public on how to identify, prevent and take action to report insurance fraud, including increased promotion of the Insurance Fraud Tip Line.

Since its inception in 1999, IFP has compiled impressive results, including 36,446 notifications received yielding 11,284 investigations; 2,836 arrests; and over $25 million ($25,310.546) ordered in restitution. We recognize that insurance fraud is not a victimless crime, costing the average Virginia family $1,000 annually in higher premiums. That is why it is so vital that we work together to continue to stamp out fraud in the Commonwealth.

Sincerely

/s/ Colonel Gary T. Settle