HARTLEY, IA (Northwestiowanow) — A rural Hartley couple is facing felony charges after allegedly submitting a fraudulent invoice for more than $13,000.
On Wednesday, October 8, the O’Brien County Sheriff’s Department arrested 34-year-old farmer Jeremy Michael Poduska and his wife, 34-year-old insurance adjuster Alicia Ann Poduska, around 10 p.m. The arrests stem from an investigation led by the Iowa Insurance Fraud Bureau.
According to court documents filed in O’Brien County District Court in Primghar, Jeremy Poduska submitted an invoice claiming $13,685 in rental equipment charges. The invoice listed a fictitious company and falsely identified Alicia Poduska as the authorized contact. Her name and phone number were included to make the document appear legitimate.
Warrants for their arrests were issued the same day they were taken into custody. Jeremy Poduska was charged with insurance fraud — presenting false information. Alicia Poduska was charged with insurance fraud — conspiracy. Both charges are Class D felonies, each carrying a potential sentence of up to five years in prison.
The couple was released late Monday after posting $5,000 secured bonds.
