Bingham County agent sentenced for insurance fraud

Wednesday February 14, 2024

Contact: Julie Robinson, 208-334-4312
julie.robinson@doi.idaho.gov

BOISE, ID (February 14, 2024) – The Idaho Department of Insurance (DOI) announced today that Scott Packham of Blackfoot, Idaho was sentenced in Bingham County for felony Misappropriation of Trust Funds.

In a plea agreement with prosecutors from the Idaho Attorney General’s Office, Packham plead guilty to one felony count of Diverting Fiduciary Insurance Funds under 41-1024(3), Idaho Code, and was sentenced on February 7, 2024.

Two of the victims attended the sentencing, one of whom gave an impact statement. The individual explained that they suffered a broken pipe and water damage in their home during the time when their insurance policy was terminated, due to Packham keeping the premium money. Fortunately, the insurance company reinstated the policy and honored the claim after the customer was able to prove they had paid the premium to Packham’s agency.

Packham was sentenced to three years prison (one year fixed and two years indeterminate). The judge suspended the sentence, and Packham was placed on two years of supervised probation. He must serve 100 hours of community service, and pay fines and restitution to the DOI, individual victims and insurance companies. The DOI revoked Packham’s insurance license in November 2020.

“Idaho Insurance Code exists to protect Idaho consumers, and agents are required to abide by it,” said Director Dean Cameron. “Misconduct by licensed agents is not tolerated by the Department.”

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About the Department of Insurance

The Idaho Department of Insurance has been regulating the business of insurance in Idaho since 1901. The mission of the Department is to serve and protect Idahoans by equitably, effectively and efficiently administering the Idaho Insurance Code and the International Fire Code. For more information, please visit us at doi.idaho.gov or email us at consumeraffairs@doi.idaho.gov.

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