Grainger County Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, TN – A Grainger County woman is charged with TennCare fraud in connection with misrepresenting her income in order to appear eligible for TennCare.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Brenda S. Singleton, 48, of Washburn. The charges stem from an investigation conducted by the Office of Inspector General and the Grainger County Sheriff’s Department.  

Singleton is charged with TennCare Fraud and theft of services amounting to over $10,000. Authorities say she inaccurately reported her household income in order to be eligible for TennCare benefits. 

“The Office of Inspector General will prosecute anyone who is misrepresenting their income, address, or employment in order to gain TennCare benefits,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said.

District Attorney General James Dunn will prosecute. If convicted, Singleton could serve up to two years for the TennCare fraud which is a Class E felony, and up to six years for the theft of services which is a Class C felony.

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."