Former Philadelphia Cop, 2 Others to Stand Trial For Insurance Fraud
By Tony Hanson
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A former Philadelphia police officer has been ordered to stand trial on charges of bribery and being part of a "corrupt organization."
The 14-year veteran of the department, now fired, is accused of taking part in auto repair insurance fraud (see previous story).
Edward Hildebrandt, manager of University Collision Center, testified today that he ran a corrupt business, assisted by damage appraisers and Philadelphia police officer Gary Cottrell.
"He was what was called a 'wreck chaser,' " notes Philadelphia prosecutor Vicki Markovitz. "He was bringing in cars while on duty and off duty. I call it the two categories -- he was sending his friends' cars, and sending people in from out on the scene. And the evidence we presented to the court showed that he would take a 20-percent cut on all the appraisals."
And prosecutors say the appraisals were even inflated in some cases.
But the defense has challenged Hildebrandt's credibility, noting that he has admitted to lying, cheating, and fraud -- and now faces probation instead of prison. The defense contends the witness is lying to help himself.
Eleven people were charged in the case. Three were held for trial today, all three pleading not guilty.
The proseutor says five others previously pleaded guilty and three others have waived their right to a preliminary hearing.
