Former MLB Player Charged in Staged Car Crash Insurance Fraud Case in Florida

Former Major League Baseball shortstop Yuniesky Betancourt has been charged with multiple fraud-related offenses following his arrest in Miami-Dade County, Florida. Accused of orchestrating a car crash alongside three accomplices to exploit insurance benefits falsely, Betancourt faces serious charges including staged accident, insurance fraud, organized scheme to defraud, and grand theft. Florida’s Chief Financial Officer, Jimmy Patronis, emphasized that such fraudulent activities pose significant risks and drive up insurance premiums for all Floridians.

The staged incident reportedly occurred in December 2022, with the group allegedly falsifying reports and injuries to claim over $22,800 in therapy payments from Kemper Insurance, which was billed over $61,000. The evidence against them includes data from the vehicle’s Event Data Recorder, which contradicted their claims. The case underscores ongoing efforts by Florida authorities to combat insurance fraud, which remains a costly and dangerous crime.

Betancourt, who had a notable career in MLB primarily with the Seattle Mariners, also played for the Kansas City Royals and Milwaukee Brewers before continuing his career internationally. Despite earning nearly $16 million during his professional years, his involvement in this scheme highlights a troubling trend of athletes encountering legal troubles post-retirement.