A Taiwanese university student’s elaborate attempt to defraud insurance companies for $1.7 million backfired spectacularly, resulting in the loss of his legs below the knee and criminal charges.
Chang, the student, conspired with his classmate, Liao, to create a fake frostbite scenario. They believed this would allow them to collect payouts from multiple insurance policies Chang had purchased beforehand.
On January 26th, 2023, in northern Taipei, Chang and Liao staged an elaborate scene to mimic frostbite injuries typically caused by a late-night motorcycle ride. To make the deception more convincing, Liao forced Chang to endure a prolonged exposure to dry ice, causing excruciating pain and significant swelling in his legs.
Chang’s hospitalization and subsequent amputation on February 6th, 2023, raised red flags for some insurance companies. Inconsistencies in the dates and details of his injuries triggered closer scrutiny. Investigators discovered several abnormalities:
Real frostbite wouldn’t appear perfectly symmetrical on both legs. Contradicting weather data: Meteorological records showed temperatures on the alleged ride night were too mild to cause frostbite.
A search uncovered medical records, insurance documents, and other items linking them to the crime.
Investigation revealed that financial difficulties due to cryptocurrency losses were Liao’s motive. He manipulated Chang into cooperating through a substantial promissory note.
Both Chang and Liao face fraud charges. Additionally, Liao is charged with inflicting serious injuries due to the harm caused by the dry ice exposure. The confiscation of any ill-gotten gains further underscores the severity of their crime.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of insurance fraud. Not only can it result in criminal prosecution, but it can also lead to devastating personal consequences.