Lawrence Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Lawrence County woman is charged with TennCare fraud for fraudulently claiming she was pregnant in order to be eligible for TennCare healthcare insurance benefits.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office, today announced the arrest of Brandy L. Jones, 36, of Lawrenceburg. She is charged with two counts of TennCare fraud and four counts of theft of services in an indictment accusing her of fraudulently claiming she was pregnant in order to be eligible for TennCare benefits. 

“TennCare fraud crosses all social, economic and professional lines,” Inspector General Manny Tyndall said.  “People committing TennCare fraud are taking something they’re not entitled to, and the chance of getting caught has increased substantially.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison per charge.  District Attorney General Brent Cooper is prosecuting.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to more than $3 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of more than $163.6 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. To date, 2,479 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 go to https://www.tn.gov/tnoig.