Gibson Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Gibson County woman is charged with TennCare fraud for allegedly failing to report her correct marital status and household income to the state in order to maintain TennCare benefits.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) working with the Gibson County Sheriff’s Office today announced the arrest of 43-year old Dawn Williamson. She’s charged with TennCare fraud and theft of services over $60,000. Investigators say Williamson failed to report to the state that she was married and failed to report the additional household income, which would have made her ineligible for TennCare benefits. As a result, TennCare paid more than $76,000 related to healthcare for Williamson and her five children.

“This investigation proved to be one of, if not the most complex that OIG has worked,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said. “The work of our Forensic Accountant team proved to be invaluable in discovering Williamson’s true income.”

The theft of services charge is a Class B felony and the TennCare fraud charge is a class D felony. The case is being prosecuted by District Attorney General Garry Brown of Gibson County. If convicted, Williamson could face penalties of up to 42 years in prison. 

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, 3,163 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/oig/ and following the prompts that read “Report TennCare Fraud.”