Robertson Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud
NASHVILLE – A Robertson County woman is charged with TennCare fraud for reporting false information to the state to obtain healthcare insurance benefits through the TennCare program.
The Office of Inspector General (OIG), in a joint effort with the Robertson County Sheriff’s Office, today announced the arrest of Jennifer Dean, 37, from Springfield. She’s charged with TennCare fraud, which is a class D felony and theft of services, a class C felony. Investigators allege that she reported she had custody of her three children so that she appeared eligible for TennCare. As a result, TennCare paid $18,960 in fees and claims.
“Using the TennCare program in order to receive benefits that one is not entitled to will not be tolerated in the state of Tennessee,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said. “We appreciate the strong relationships that have been forged with local law enforcement to help thwart people from committing these crimes.”
The case is being prosecuted by 19th Judicial District Attorney General John W. Carney, Jr., of Montgomery and Robertson Counties.
The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated more than 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, 3,128 people have been charged with TennCare fraud.
To access the OIG most wanted list please visit https://www.tn.gov/finance/fa-oig/fa-oig-most-wanted.html, where there is information about reporting tips on one of the subjects.
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.”