A Tampa woman, Katrenia Lynette Harris, has been indicted on five counts of wire fraud related to an automobile insurance scheme. The charges were announced by United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. If convicted, Harris faces up to 20 years in prison for each count.
According to the indictment, Harris presented herself as an authorized agent for a major automobile insurance company and solicited individuals seeking insurance coverage. She allegedly impersonated her clients to obtain policy documents and collected payments primarily through the mobile application Cash App. However, she did not forward these payments to the insurance carrier, leading to cancellation of the policies for non-payment.
The indictment states that Harris provided her clients with fraudulent policy documents while failing to inform them when their coverage was canceled. As a result, several victims operated vehicles without valid insurance in Florida and other locations.
Authorities are seeking forfeiture of at least $49,772.40, which is believed to be proceeds from the alleged fraud scheme.
Victims who have been identified will receive notice under the Crime Victims’ Rights Act. Those who believe they may be affected but have not received notification are encouraged to visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdfl/katrenia_harris for information on how to contact law enforcement.
“An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty,” according to the statement from authorities.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Florida Department of Financial Services – Bureau of Insurance Fraud. Assistant United States Attorney Adam J. Duso will prosecute the case.
