Why people fake their death

In Missing Persons, published in the March 2008 issue of The Estate Analyst, Robert L. Moshman, Esq. discusses different instances where people have faked their own death:

Sometimes people fake their own deaths to escape marriage or criminal prosecution or to collect life insurance. In a recent case, John Darwin escaped financial difficulties and was believed lost at sea. His wife collected on two insurance policies. But five years later, Darwin returned “smelling dreadful” and ultimately was discovered and arrested.***

Former congressional candidate Gary Dodds was recently convicted of faking his own death in New Hampshire, with the possible motive of gaining a sympathy vote.***

Typically, faking one’s own death can range from a misdemeanor (such as for false swearing) to a felony (such as fraud).