Mississippi Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Mississippi woman is charged with TennCare fraud and theft of services for allegedly falsely reporting a Tennessee residence in order to obtain TennCare benefits for herself and her two children.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) in a joint effort with the Holly Springs (Mississippi) Police Department and Fayette County Sheriff’s Department today announced that 37-year old Shenika V. Mason of Holly Springs, MS is charged with 19 counts of TennCare Fraud and one count theft of services over $10,000 but under $60,000. The charges allege that she reported a Tennessee address to state officials when she and her children were residing in Mississippi. As a result, TennCare paid $11,197.10 in fees and claims on behalf of Mason and her children.

“The TennCare program is designed to provide benefits for individuals who need the services provided through the proper and legal avenues,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said.  “The OIG appreciates effort of both the Holly Springs Police Department and the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department in assisting in our continued collaboration to protect the Tennessee taxpayer’s money.”

If convicted, Mason could face penalties of up to a maximum of 243 years in prison for the charges. The theft of services charge is a class C felony and the TennCare fraud charges are class D felonies. The case is being prosecuted by District Attorney General Mark E. Davidson of Fayette County.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated over 5,760 criminal cases leading to more than $10.8 million ordered in restitution to TennCare.  This has helped lead to a total estimated cost avoidance of more than $163.6 million for TennCare, according to the latest figures. To date, 3,158 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 or by logging on to www.tn.gov/oig/ and following the prompts that read “Report TennCare Fraud.”