Insurance fraud investigations recover millions for Texans

Texas investigators identify people committing costly insurance fraud and help get millions of dollars back for fraud victims.

In 2024, the Texas Department of Insurance's Fraud Unit contributed to investigations landing nearly $58 million in court-ordered restitution.

More than 20 TDI investigators stationed around the state looked into over 350 insurance fraud allegations-focusing on cases with the biggest possible impact.

Their work potentially saves all consumers money.

Kyson Johnson, among TDI lawyers helping local and federal authorities follow up on investigations, said: "If we recoup restitution for insurance companies and consumers, hopefully that causes less of an increase in premiums. Those companies and consumers are no longer exposed to the fraud."

One investigation helped stop Dallas doctors Desi and Deno Barroga. The two had been overprescribing opioids and falsely billing health plans by millions of dollars.

Information collected by a TDI investigator helped the FBI and other agencies build a criminal case. The doctors pleaded guilty and were sentenced to prison. A U.S. district judge ordered them to pay $9 million in restitution. Both men also were required to give up their medical licenses.

You can report insurance fraud online.

Have a question about insurance? Call TDI's Help Line at 800-252-3439 or visit tdi.texas.gov.