Lawrence Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

Monday, May 24, 2021 | 03:00pm
Billie Stoneburner

NASHVILLE – A Lawrenceburg woman is charged with TennCare fraud for allegedly falsifying information given to the state in order to obtain TennCare healthcare insurance benefits.   

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), in a joint effort with the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department, today announced the arrest of 32-year old Billie Jo Stoneburner. She’s charged with one count of TennCare fraud, which is a class C felony, and theft of services over $10,000 but under $60,000, a class D felony.  Investigators allege that Stoneburner falsely reported that she had custody of her children and as a result, TennCare paid more than $46,200.00 in fees and claims on her behalf.

“We truly value our partners in local law enforcement in Tennessee, where partnering with us is crucial to our mission,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said. “The OIG works to strengthen these relationships to ensure that those who choose to abuse TennCare are brought to justice.”

The case is being prosecuted by District Attorney General Brent A. Cooper of Lawrence County.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February of 2005 and has investigated over 5,760 criminal cases leading to more than $10.8 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of more than $163.6 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. TennCare’s budget is comprised of both federal and state dollars: 65% and 35% respectfully. To date, 3,117 people have been charged with TennCare fraud.

The OIG’s most wanted for TennCare fraud are posted online at https://www.tn.gov/finance/fa-oig/fa-oig-most-wanted.html. Anyone with information about their whereabouts is urged to use the contact information on the page.  

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.”