Taiwan Man Faces Charges for Orchestrating Dry Ice Amputation Insurance Fraud

A disturbing incident has surfaced from Taiwan, where a man attempted to defraud insurance companies of over $1 million by intentionally causing himself severe frostbite, resulting in the amputation of both legs below the knee. The Taipei District Prosecutors Office identified the suspect by his surname Chang, who, along with an accomplice, submerged his legs in dry ice for an extended period. This dangerous exposure led to fourth-degree frostbite, bone necrosis, and sepsis, necessitating emergency surgery.

Chang initially claimed the injuries were the result of a scooter accident during a trip in northern Taiwan. However, the investigation revealed that Chang and his accomplice, Liao, had meticulously planned the act, even documenting the process. Despite their efforts, their claim was largely unsuccessful, with most insurers rejecting their applications due to suspicious circumstances. Only one company paid out $7,000, a fraction of the intended $1.3 million total claim.

Authorities were alerted to the scam by the insurance companies, leading to an investigation by Taiwan’s Criminal Investigation Bureau. The investigation uncovered several red flags, including the purchase of high-payout insurance policies just days before the incident and the implausibility of severe frostbite in Taiwan’s subtropical climate. Further, the symmetrical nature of the injuries and lack of protective clothing at the time suggested they were self-inflicted.

Both Chang and Liao now face serious charges of insurance fraud and attempted insurance fraud. This case highlights the lengths to which individuals might go to defraud insurance companies, underscoring the need for vigilant fraud detection and prevention measures.