Shelby County Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE – A Shelby County woman is charged with TennCare fraud and theft of property after she received healthcare insurance benefits through the program, even though she was not eligible for TennCare.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Lisa Stockton, 32, of Memphis. She is charged with one count of TennCare fraud and one count of theft of property. The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office assisted in Stockton’s arrest.

Charges against Stockton say that between April of 2010 and July 7 of 2011, she received TennCare benefits by means of willfully false statement or other fraudulent means.

“People who misrepresent their current status in order to qualify for TennCare benefits will be caught and prosecuted,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said. “TennCare fraud is a felony and a conviction could mean jail time and repaying the state for any medical services received.”

The TennCare fraud charge carries up to a two year sentence and the theft of property charge could result in a sentence up to four years. District Attorney General Amy P. Weirich will prosecute.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $3.5 million paid in restitution and recoupment to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $173 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures.  To date, over 1,700 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."