Wilson Co. Woman Guilty of TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Wilson County woman will be sentenced in July after being found guilty of TennCare fraud and theft of services.

Wanda June Williams, 53, of Mt. Juliet was arrested in September of 2013 after an indictment accusing her of falsely reporting her resources in order to appear eligible for the state´s healthcare insurance program. During the two-day trial in Wilson County, it was revealed she had received healthcare benefits she was not entitled to amounting to $22,644.00.

“This is only the fourth time a defendant has chosen to go to trial rather than plea bargain after TennCare fraud charges were filed,” Inspector General Manny Tyndall said.  “We work hard with agencies such as District Attorneys, the Bureau of TennCare and DHS to build strong cases so the cases will be won in court.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison. Theft of services over $10,000 is a Class C felony that carries a penalty of six years in prison, and restitution may be required. Assistant District Attorney Jason Lawson prosecuted the case. 

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $3 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $163.6 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. To date, 2,321 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 Office of Inspector General and follow the prompts that read "Report TennCare Fraud."