New Bedford Couple Charged with $750K Insurance Fraud Scheme

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A New Bedford couple, Brendan and Lisa Lawler, have been indicted in federal court for allegedly stealing over $750,000 from their insurance brokerage, BL Insurance of Fairhaven. The U.S. Attorney's Office claims the Lawlers used the stolen funds for personal expenses like fast food, private school tuition, and high-interest "hard money" loans, while creating false documents to cover up the scheme.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing problem of insurance fraud, which can undermine consumer trust and drive up costs for legitimate policyholders. The Lawlers' alleged actions also raise concerns about the oversight and regulation of small insurance brokerages, especially those struggling financially.

The details

According to the indictment, the Lawlers used their insurance company BL Insurance to defraud at least 50 clients, insurance providers, and lenders between 2018 and 2024. As the company's finances deteriorated, the couple allegedly stole client premiums instead of purchasing the promised policies. They are accused of creating fake documents to make it appear the policies were in effect. The stolen funds were used for personal expenses like fast food, Starbucks, and private school tuition, as well as to pay off high-interest "hard money" loans.

• The Lawlers were first arrested in August 2025 on the fraud charges.
• The U.S. Attorney's Office issued a renewed indictment against the couple on January 30, 2026.
• The Massachusetts Division of Insurance revoked BL Insurance's license in March 2024 following an investigation.

What’s next

The Lawlers are expected to appear in federal court at a later date to face the charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.