Kansas Commissioner Praeger Expands Anti-Fraud Effort

Kansas Insurance Commissioner Sandy Praeger announced the expansion of the department’s movement to investigate insurance fraud and educate Kansas consumers about protecting themselves from illegal activity. Jerry Wells has been appointed director of the newly created anti-fraud division. Previously, he served as director of government affairs and special counsel to the commissioner. Wells is a former Douglas County District Attorney and executive director of the Koch Crime Institute.

Praeger said in a statement that the volume of fraud complaints was escalating, and that the Kansas Insurance Department (KID) is investigating more than 250 cases. The anti-fraud division has two attorneys, two investigators and an administrative assistant. In addition, seven KID staff attorneys, led by Chief Legal Counsel John Campbell, will also collaborate with fraud investigation cases.

Community education forums focusing on fraud protection are being planned throughout the state and will also be highlighted during a Department exhibit at the Kansas State Fair. Anyone who suspects an insurance crime has been committed is encouraged to call the Kansas Insurance Departments’ Consumer Hotline at (800) 432-2484.