RALEIGH — A Lumberton insurance agent accused of pocketing premiums from his clients has been arrested.

Michael Devon McLean, 34, of 2675 E. Seventh St., Lot 32, Lumberton, is charged with one count of embezzlement by an insurance agent, according to a statement from the office of State Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin.

Department investigators allege that between Feb. 1 and March 30 McLean failed to remit $2,981 in premiums to United Insurance Company of America for life insurance policies for his clients. The company made good on the policies, and no customers went without insurance coverage.

After surrendering to the Lumberton Police Department on Friday, McLean was taken to the Robeson County Magistrate’s Office and released under a $3,000 unsecured bond, according to Goodwin.

The Department of Insurance employs 20 sworn law enforcement officers to investigate claims of insurance fraud. So far in 2010, theys have seen more than 165 cases successfully closed with more than $5.8 million in restitution and recoveries, 40 criminal convictions and more than 65 arrests.

To report suspected fraud, call the Department of Insurance Criminal Investigations Division at (919) 807-6840. Callers do not have to give their identity. Information is also available at www.ncdoi.com.