Multi-Million-Dollar Insurance Fraud Ringleader Captured After Four Years as a Fugitive

William Maze, 62, the alleged orchestrator of a multi-million-dollar insurance fraud scheme, has been apprehended by US Marshals after four years on the run. Maze is accused of leading a criminal network that staged car accidents and other incidents to file fraudulent insurance claims, resulting in over $6 million in payouts. A federal grand jury in Washington indicted Maze in 2018, but he had been evading capture since violating his pretrial release conditions in July 2019.

Maze was arrested at a marina in Jacksonville, Florida, believed to be his residence. US Marshal Craig Thayer emphasized that Maze’s financial resources did not prevent his eventual apprehension. Maze, known for his manipulative tactics and potential for violence, was involved in a fraudulent operation spanning five states, including Washington and Nevada.

He now faces extradition to Washington to confront various charges, including mail fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, health care fraud, money laundering, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. His co-conspirator, Ron Wells, has already been sentenced to a year of home confinement. Maze’s arrest highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat complex insurance fraud schemes.