Staged Crash Scam Sends New Yorkers to Prison
Two Brooklyn men were prosecuted in connection with a scheme to stage vehicle crashes on New York City highways for insurance fraud, according to court records and a criminal investigation. Authorities said the operation involved at least three staged collisions and included a crash in which one participant quickly abandoned the vehicle.
Crash staged on New York City highway
Prosecutors identified the defendants as Jaime Huiracocha, 53, and Victor Murillo, 34, both of Brooklyn. Investigators alleged the men helped arrange staged crashes designed to support fraudulent insurance claims.
In one incident, surveillance footage showed Murillo driving a Honda. Immediately after the collision, he moved into the front passenger seat and exited into a red Kia that had stopped in front of the Honda, according to the case records. Authorities said he left the scene before the other driver fully understood what had occurred.
Murillo sentenced to prison
A Queens Supreme Court judge sentenced Murillo to two years in prison on Aug. 27, 2026, according to the information provided by prosecutors. The case was announced by Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz and New York Gov. Kathy Hochul.
The records identify Huiracocha and Murillo as participants in three staged crashes. The available information did not specify Huiracocha’s sentence or provide additional details about the final disposition of his case.
Staged crashes can carry significant penalties
New York legislation addressing staged collisions sets tougher penalties based on the consequences of a fraudulent crash. Under the bill described in the case materials, staging a crash that does not result in injuries could carry up to 10 years in prison.
If a staged collision causes serious injury, participants could face up to 20 years behind bars and financial penalties. A fabricated crash resulting in a fatality could lead to a life sentence and additional fines, according to the bill.
Authorities have emphasized that staged-collision schemes affect more than the drivers directly involved. Commercial trucks and their operators can also become targets because collisions involving larger vehicles may generate substantial insurance claims and litigation.
