Knox County Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE – A Knox County woman is charged in nearby Grainger County with TennCare fraud.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of the Grainger County Sheriff’s Office, today announced the arrest of Louvita L. Dalton, 33, of Corryton.   An indictment out of Grainger County charges her with TennCare fraud and prescription fraud for attempting to obtain a controlled substance by fraud.

“Our message is simple, if you lie, cheat or steal to get TennCare benefits, you risk going to jail or prison,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said.

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison, and obtaining a controlled substance by fraud is a Class D felony, punishable by two to four years in prison. District Attorney General James Dunn is prosecuting.

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."