Campbell Co. Woman Charged With TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Campbell County woman is charged with TennCare fraud for falsely reporting her income in order to appear eligible for the state’s healthcare insurance program.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with assistance from the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office, today announced the arrest of Angela Smith, 37, of Pioneer. She is charged with three counts of TennCare fraud for under reporting her income to the state in order to obtain TennCare medical benefits for herself and her family.

“This is a common scheme used by people who want to make themselves look poor on paper. while taxpayers are picking up the tab for their medical services,” Inspector General Manny Tyndall said.  “We have uncovered various schemes that people are using to defraud the TennCare program, but bringing these folks to justice sends a message that we’re going to prosecute these cases.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison per charge.  District Attorney General Jared Effler is prosecuting.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to more than $3 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of more than $163.6 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. To date, 2,431 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."