Gibson Co. Woman Repays State in TennCare Fraud Case

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Gibson County woman has repaid the state more than $76,000 after she was charged with TennCare fraud and theft of services.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced that Dawn Williamson, 43, was sentenced in Crockett County, where she was charged in connection with failing to report her marital status and household income in order to obtain TennCare benefits for herself and her five children. Williamson has fulfilled an order to repay the state a total of $76,083.70 for benefits received while she was on the program.  

She was arrested in July of this year, when she was charged with class B and C felony theft of services. The case was prosecuted by Assistand District Attorney General Jason Scott.

“We appreciate the perseverance of the Crockett County District Attorney General’s office in bringing prosecution of TennCare fraud to the forefront in their local communities,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said. “Our office will continue to do our part and preserve the integrity of TennCare benefits, so that those truly deserving of and eligible for TennCare have the best resources.”

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated over 5,760 criminal cases leading to more than $10.8 million ordered in restitution to TennCare.  This has helped lead to a total estimated cost avoidance of more than $163.6 million for TennCare, according to the latest figures. To date, 3,094 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 or by logging on to www.tn.gov/tnoig/ and following the prompts that read “Report TennCare fraud.”