Robert M. "Bear" Bryant retired as National Insurance CrimeBureau (NICB) President and Chief Executive Officer, effective atthe close of business on Sept. 2.

At the NICB, Bryant was the force behind the creation of MedicalFraud Task Forces and the Strategic and Tactical InformationDepartment. He supported technology such as license plate readers,bait cars, and enhanced analytical tools for detecting fraudtrends. His efforts materialized with the launch of NICB'smember-supported VINCheck vehicle history service on June 30, 2008-- a first-of-a-kind free benefit for the public.

In a statement released by the NICB, Susan Q. Hood, chair of theNICB Board of Governors stated, "Mr. Bryant was responsible forremaking the NICB into the premier fraud-fighting organization itis today. His leadership, foresight, and passion for excellencehave touched every facet of NICB's operations deliveringefficiency, effectiveness, and a return on member investment thathas grown from 2:1 upon his arrival to 8:1 presently. This is trulyphenomenal and I know I speak for the rest of the Board ofGovernors in wishing Mr. Bryant a satisfying and well-deservedretirement. He will be missed."

The NICB Board elected Joseph H. Wehrle, Jr., its chiefoperating officer, to succeed Bryant as president and chiefexecutive officer effective immediately. "I am honored by theconfidence the NICB Board has placed in me and I am excited to havethe opportunity to lead this great organization. Thanks to BobBryant, the NICB is operationally sound and ready to move to thenext level in our continued effort to accomplish our mission ofcombating insurance fraud and vehicle theft."