6 Accused of Staging Accident to Collect Insurance in N.J.

State authorities say six Passaic County residents played roles in a staged-automobile accident scheme that defrauded two insurance companies out of more than $78,000. Acting state Attorney General John Hoffman announced the charges Monday. He said five of the suspects were arrested last Wednesday, while the sixth was issued a summons. The suspects were charged with conspiracy, insurance fraud and theft by deception in an indictment handed up April 10 by a state grand jury. Each could face lengthy prison terms if convicted on the charges.