California is known for its beautiful landscapes, luxury cars, and sometimes, strange crime schemes. Recently, four residents of Los Angeles County found themselves at the center of a bizarre insurance fraud case, involving much more than just luxury vehicles — it included bear costumes.
The scheme's name, "Operation Bear Claw," might sound like the title of a low-budget movie, but its story is all too real. It all began when the California Department of Insurance (CDI) received reports of odd insurance claims. Investigators looked closely at what some were claiming: wildlife damage from bears. On January 28, 2024, one suspect reported damages to their 2010 Rolls-Royce Ghost, alleging it was assaulted by a bear.
To back up the claim, the group sent footage purportedly showing the bear breaking and entering, supposedly damaging the plush interior of the luxury vehicle. The video showed fuzzy, semi-coherent motion, leading some to believe it might be real. But this supposed bear attack was about to take a turn for the ridiculous.
Upon scrutiny, CDI investigators had serious doubts about the authenticity of the footage. With each passing second, it became clear: the bear was not what it appeared to be. "Upon closer examination of the video, investigators concluded it was actually just someone dressed up as a bear," the CDI stated. They described the markings and scratches inside the car and revealed they were made with kitchen tools, typically used for shredding meat.
This odd twist quickly spiraled. The suspects, identified as Ruben Tamrazian (26), Ararat Chirkinian (39), Vahe Muradkhanyan (32), and Alfiya Zuckerman (39), were arrested, charged with conspiracy and three counts of insurance fraud linked to claims totaling $141,839 made to three different insurance companies.
But what was even stranger than dressing up as bears was their method. This same group made multiple claims on the same date and at the same location. Not only did they send the footage of the Rolls-Royce, but they also reported damage to two other cars — both Mercedes-Benzes, claiming the same 'bear' attack had occurred. The twist? The suspects were caught repositioning their vehicles between incidents for additional claims.
One hour after Cadillac claims were filed, conveniently, the Mercedes E350 was next to face the wrath of the bear. And to top it all off, authorities found the bear costume when they executed search warrants. Complete with meat-shredding tools, it seemed like they were ready for more furry fun.
The investigation revealed other suspicious activities centered around luxury vehicles in Los Angeles. The alleged bear incidents raised eyebrows, especially since bear disturbances — like rummaging through garbage or raiding pools — had become more common due to animals adapting to urban environments. Still, this was the first case where such antics were used intentionally for insurance fraud.
Experts remain baffled by the audacity of such schemes. “We’ve seen all sorts of ridiculous attempts at insurance fraud over the years, but this one takes the cake,” said Tim Daly, public relations officer for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. “People often blame bears for their missteps, but to actually don a bear suit is unprecedented.”
The suspects are now awaiting trial as investigations proceed. Zuckerman has been released after posting bail of $50,000, but the other three are still locked up. Should they be found guilty, they face not only hefty fines and repayment of insurance payouts but also the potential of hefty court penalties.
Though bizarre incidents may flash through the headlines from time to time, the prevalence of insurance fraud serves as both cautionary and comedic tales. If nothing else, this incident embodies the lengths to which individuals might go, even squeezing themselves inside oversized costumes just to try and pull off what seems overly elaborate and fundamentally ridiculous.
The collective chuckle and disbelief at this scheme shouldn't overshadow the reality of the seriousness with which the California Department of Insurance approaches fraud — for every laugh, there is someone impacted by rising insurance premiums. It’s always the calculated risks by fellow citizens engaged in such schemes deemed daring at face value but are quickly dimmed by the consequences and investigations they invite.
