The Virginia State Police have already arrested more people on insurance fraud-related charges this year than they did in all of 2006, the agency announced last week.

Through June, the state police’s Insurance Fraud Program made 110 arrests. Last year, the unit recorded 89 arrests.

“This is a significant increase, due in part to the hard work of the department’s special agents as well as the quality of information we receive about suspected insurance fraud from both the insurance industry and Virginia citizens,” said Lt. Roger Rector, who heads the anti-fraud unit.

Rector also attributed the higher arrest total to an increased focus on fraud within the police department, adding that fraud investigations have grown 26 percent this year.

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As criminals employ technology to commit fraud, Virginians are increasingly using computers to report potential crimes. The fraud unit has received 27 percent more public complaints through its Web site this year than in 2006, while tips coming from its toll-free hotline, mail and fax have decreased.

To anonymously report fraud, Virginians may log onto stampoutfraud.com and click on “Report Fraud” or call 1-877-62-FRAUD. People who do not remain anonymous are eligible for rewards of up to $25,000 if their information leads to an arrest.

“Insurance fraud affects us all,” Rector said. “The result is Virginia citizens not only pay higher insurance premiums, but the hidden costs of this crime mean we all pay more for everyday goods and services.”

jrogalsky@dcxaminer.com