Houston Man Arrested for Arson in SUV Scam

A northwest Houston man, who allegedly burned a sport utility vehicle belonging to family members in order to collect $35,000 in insurance proceeds, was arrested and charged after an investigation by Harris County fire marshal investigators.

According to the Houston Chronicle, Paul Rodriguez was charged with arson and placed in County Jail on $20,000 bail. Others are expected to be arrested for arson and insurance fraud in connection with the case. Investigators said Rodriguez is a “flight risk” and felt it was important to charge him without delay.

The torched vehicle, a 2003 Ford Expedition, was reported stolen on Feb. 24 at an area mall and later was found burned in north Harris County.

The $35,000 insurance policy on the car was purchased on Feb. 23.