Fayette Co. Woman Charged with 48 Counts of TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn.  – A Fayette County woman is charged with TennCare fraud and theft of services for allegedly fraudulently reporting her household income in order to qualify for TennCare.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) in a joint effort with the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department today announced the arrest of 36-year old Shuvonda Barnett of Rossville, Tennessee. She is charged with 48 counts of TennCare fraud and two counts of theft of services over $10,000 but under $60,000. Barnett is accused of falsely reporting her income in order to obtain TennCare benefits for herself and her three children. In all, TennCare paid $35,773.90 in fees and claims on behalf of Barnett and her children.

“The Office of Inspector General is determined to catch people who try to take advantage of Tennessee’s Medicaid program,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said. “We will continue to demonstrate a proven commitment through our diligent investigation process to ensure that our taxpayer’s money is being used properly.”

The theft of services charges are class C felonies and the TennCare fraud charges are class D felonies. If convicted, Barnett could face penalties of up to a maximum of 606 years in prison. 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, 3,159 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.”