- News Desk
- April 23, 2025
- Crime
Attorney General Dave Sunday announced the sentencing of Lori Retus, the third and final defendant in a Cumberland County auto insurance fraud scheme that generated over $300,000 in false claim payouts.
On Tuesday, a Cumberland County judge sentenced 51-year-old Retus to four years of probation, with the first six months on house arrest.
The scheme’s leader, 25-year-old Kwa’rai Samuel, was sentenced last month to 5 to 10 years in state prison. Co-defendant Kevin Hartung, 46, is serving a 2-to-5-year sentence. All three were ordered to pay $300,988 in restitution.
An investigation by the Office of Attorney General and the 52nd Statewide Investigating Grand Jury revealed that the group used stolen identities and fictitious information to obtain auto insurance policies. They then submitted false accident and damage claims to receive payouts.
The defendants pleaded guilty to charges including corrupt organizations, insurance fraud, theft by deception, and related offenses. The group submitted 42 fraudulent claims and received payouts on 21 of them.
The case is being prosecuted by Senior Deputy Attorney General Kristyne Crist and Deputy Attorney General April Lysaght of the Insurance Fraud Section.
Gerald Maust 1958-2025
Born December 8, 1958, Gerald was the son of the late William A and Audrey L (Chronister) Maust.
Patricia A. Downin 1935-2025
During her working years, Mrs. Downin was employed by Waynesboro Shoe Factory, Connie’s Sportswear and Bargain Town for many years.
Christopher C. Grubbs 1978-2025
Chris was employed for 20 years as a Project Manager at Volvo in Hagerstown, MD. He was a member of Grand Point Church in Chambersburg.
Chrystal L. Sattazahn 1966-2025
Throughout her life, Chrystal was employed by various medical facilities as a receptionist. She enjoyed traveling to Fort Myers, FL to see her parents.
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