CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A Charlotte roofing contractor was arrested on felony charges for allegedly conspiring to damage a roof and file a fraudulent insurance claim, officials said.
Robert Allen Bentley, 36, a senior project manager with A&M Premier Roofing & Construction, was arrested Dec. 10 and charged with insurance fraud, attempting to obtain property by false pretense, and conspiracy. A second arrest in connection with the case is pending.
According to the arrest warrant, Bentley and a co-worker intentionally damaged shingles on a Wake County home and then falsely claimed the damage was caused by wind and hail to collect $30,000 from North Carolina Farm Bureau Insurance Group.
The arrest followed a two-month investigation coordinated by the Department of Insurance’s fraud investigators and the Farm Bureau Special Investigations Unit. Investigators used a bait house to catch employees of roofing companies intentionally damaging roofs to support fraudulent insurance claims.
Investigators also employed engineering experts, advanced surveillance, and traditional police work to build the case. North Carolina Farm Bureau provided material support to the investigation.
“Roofing scams are serious crimes,” said Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey. “Roof scammers should be on alert that our special agents, as well as insurance companies, are actively working to reduce this crime, which costs homeowners and raises insurance premiums.”
Shawn Harding, president of North Carolina Farm Bureau, emphasized the harm caused to customers: “We’re pleased that the individuals charged are being held accountable and look forward to continuing efforts to prevent and deter fraud in the roofing industry.”
This case highlights ongoing efforts in North Carolina to combat roofing-related insurance fraud and protect homeowners.
