Dance Studio Owner Accused of Staging Robberies for Insurance Fraud

A Colorado dance studio owner is facing more than 20 criminal charges after prosecutors say she staged robberies at her own business to collect insurance money.

According to an indictment, Cindy Burdine is accused of orchestrating fake break-ins at her Boulder-based dance studio and filing fraudulent insurance claims. Investigators allege she collected more than $500,000 from insurance companies tied to those incidents.

Authorities say one of the staged robberies involved damaging the studio and hiring individuals to appear on surveillance video as burglars. The indictment also accuses Burdine of attempting to influence a police officer during the investigation.

Prosecutors claim some of the money obtained through the alleged scheme was used for personal expenses, including cosmetic surgery.

Beyond the criminal case, former customers and employees have come forward with additional concerns, including claims of questionable financial practices. Some parents say they were charged large amounts for dance competitions that were later canceled, with refunds never issued.

The studio has since closed, with reports indicating unpaid rent and an eviction notice earlier this year.

The investigation began after a former employee reported suspected fraud to authorities.

Burdine’s bail has been set at $10,000, though it remains unclear whether she has been taken into custody.

The case remains under investigation as prosecutors move forward with the charges.

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