Williamson County Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud
NASHVILLE – A Williamson County woman has been charged with TennCare fraud for presenting false information in order to access health insurance benefits through TennCare.
The Office of Inspector General (OIG) with the assistance of the Tennessee Department of Corrections today announced the arrest of Dawn B. Springer, 36, on a Williamson County indictment that accuses her of intentionally misrepresenting herself to gain TennCare benefits.
Springer was indicted on one count of TennCare fraud and one count of theft of services over $10,000. She was served with the indictment when she appeared in court on other unrelated charges. She is currently housed at the Women’s Prison in Nashville, TN, where she is serving time for a conviction not related to the current TennCare fraud charges.
Investigators say Springer made false statements to the state in claiming that her children lived with her in order to receive TennCare healthcare insurance coverage.
“The tip that led to these charges came to us through our hotline, which allows the public to report suspected TennCare fraud,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said. “It’s a great example of a citizen helping us in the war against TennCare fraud.”
If convicted, Springer could face up to six years in prison on the Class C and E felonies lodged against her. District Attorney General Kim R. Helper, will prosecute.
The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $2.5 million paid in restitution and recoupment to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $171 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures. To date, over 1,240 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 log on to www.tn.gov/tnoig and follow the prompts that read "Report TennCare Fraud."