Wilson County Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, TN - A Wilson County woman is charged in an indictment with TennCare fraud for falsely reporting her income in order to appear eligible for the state’s healthcare insurance program.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with assistance from Wilson County Sheriff’s Officers, today announced the arrest of Wanda June Williams, 53, of Mt. Juliet.  She has been charged with one count of TennCare fraud and two counts of theft of services in connection with falsely reported her resources to the state in order to access healthcare benefits through TennCare.

“If you lie, cheat or steal to get TennCare benefits, you risk going to jail, having to pay the state for the services, and possibly losing the privilege of applying for TennCare in the future,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said.

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison. Theft of services over $1,000 but less than $10,000 is a Class D felony that carries a maximum sentence of four years in prison.  Theft of services over $10,000 is a Class C felony that carries a penalty of six years in prison.  District Attorney General Tom P. Thompson 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 1,900 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."