Pa. family accused of $20M fraud after 3 fires, alleged theft
Authorities say a Pennsylvania family’s luxurious lifestyle has been financed by more than $20 million in fraudulent insurance claims.
The state attorney general’s office on Thursday announced the arrest of 67-year-old Claire Risoldi and four relatives. Counts against Risoldi include conspiracy, witness intimidation and forgery.
The investigation began after a 2013 fire at Risoldi’s mansion near Philadelphia. It was the third blaze in five years.
Authorities say Risoldi falsely accused volunteer firefighters of stealing $10 million in jewelry while battling the flames.
So far, an insurer has paid out more than $20 million for the fires, but is fighting the jewelry claim.
Authorities told a grand jury that they uncovered a decades-long pattern of questionable insurance claims by Risoldi.
It could not immediately be determined if she has a lawyer.
WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.