Dayton Man Convicted Of Fraud In Arson Case
By Gounaris Denslow Abboud, Co. LPA
Mar. 14, 2011 11:35a
Court Sentences Arsonist To Five Years
Mary Taylor, Ohio Lieutenant Governor and Department of Insurance Director, released a report announcing the top five fraud cases in the state of Ohio in 2010. The list was chosen from over 160 consumer insurance fraud cases opened by the department, of which 80 were eventually referred for prosecution. The report lists James Hodges’ Dayton County Arson Fraud as the number 4 investigation.
The case was originally reported on February 2nd, 2010, on wohiotv.com, when Hodges was given his initial court hearing. He pled not guilty to three counts of aggravated arson for hire, and two counts of insurance fraud. Law enforcement investigators reported that he had allegedly hired a man, whose identity is still unknown, to burn down his home in Dayton, on Rugby Road.
The initial two attempts in September 2009 had failed, but he finally succeeded in the first part of his scheme in October, when the hired arsonist was able to burn down his home, destroying the house and many of his possessions. However, when Hodges attempted to complete the second stage of his plan, when he notified the insurance company of the arson, investigators discovered inconsistencies with the story, finally learning the truth of his bogus claim.
Hodges was convicted of one count of arson and another count of insurance fraud, for attempting to con the company out of $15,000. He will serve five years in prison for his misdeeds.
A Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help You
If you have been accused of fraud or any other white-collar crime in Ohio, the penalties you face can be very severe. No matter how serious your charges, it is crucial that you contact an experienced Dayton criminal defense attorney who will defend your rights with vigor and determination. The legal team at Gounaris Denslow Abboud, Co. LPA is dedicated to providing our clients with an aggressive defense tailored to the specifics of each case. Do not hesitate to call today for a free consultation!
Contact a Dayton white-collar crime attorney now to discuss your case!
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