Department of Finance & Administration
Mark Emkes, Commissioner

THREE DAVIDSON CO. RESIDENTS CHARGED WITH TENNCARE FRAUD

NASHVILLE - Three Davidson County residents are charged with TennCare fraud involving people gaining access to TennCare who were not eligible for the public healthcare insurance program.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) along with the Department of Human Services Investigations Division today announced the arrest of Shauntaye Mayo, 30, of Alabama; Leona Mayo, 60; and, Johnetta Mayo , 52, both of Nashville. The arrests were assisted by the Metro Nashville Police Department.

Shauntaye Mayo is charged in an indictment with one count of theft of services over $10,000, and four counts of TennCare fraud. Leona Mayo, a DHS employee, and her sister, Johnetta are each charged with one count of TennCare fraud. Charges accuse the women of helping Johnetta's daughter, Shauntaye, in obtaining TennCare medical benefits she did not qualify for by means of a false statement and concealment of material facts.

District Attorney Victor S. Johnson, III will prosecute. If convicted, Leona, Johnetta, and Shauntaye could serve up to two years for the TennCare fraud charge, which is a Class E felony. Theft of services over $10,000 is a Class C Felony which carries a sentence of three to six years.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $3.5 million paid in restitution and recoupment to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $173 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures.  To date, nearly 1,500 people have been charged with TennCare fraud.

Through the OIG Cash for Tips Program established by the Legislature, Tennesseans can get cash rewards for TennCare fraud tips that lead to convictions.  Anyone can report suspected TennCare fraud by calling 1-800-433-3982 toll-free from anywhere in Tennessee, or log on to www.tn.gov/tnoig and follow the prompts that read "Report TennCare Fraud."