Yes, I’m a travel insurance fraudster
A fraudster who forged medical documents and invoices to make bogus insurance travel claims is facing jail.
Cormac McCollum, 26, fleeced Direct Line out of over £20,000 by claiming payouts for medical procedures he never underwent.
McCollum carried out one fraud on 23 November 2017 and a second a year later on 12 October 2018.
Matt Barrowcliffe, prosecuting, told Westminster Magistrates Court: ‘This matter relates to two similar counts of fraud using the similar modus operandi.
‘The defendant has taken out a travel insurance policy with Direct Line.
‘He made a claim against that insurance in the hope of a payout to his bank account.
Mr Barrowcliffe said the crook used documents, fake bank statements and bogus doctor’s medical letters to fool the company.
He added: ‘A degree of planning, significant planning and some sophistication was involved.’
McCollum appeared in court in a navy blue suit and tie over white shirt to admit carrying out the swindle.
Miles Herman, defending told the magistrates: ‘I accept your sentencing powers for the purpose of today are insufficient.
‘He made full admissions during a voluntary interview.
‘There is also an offer of fully compensating the complainant.’
McCollum, of 9 Legacy Tower, Stratford, east London, admitted two counts of fraud by false representation and one count of possessing an article for use in fraud in respect of the fake documents.
He was bailed ahead of sentence at Inner London Crown Court on a date to be fixed.
