Knox Co. Woman Charged with 15 Counts of TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, TN - A Knox County woman is charged with TennCare fraud and theft of services after she received healthcare insurance benefits through the state program, even though she was not eligible.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Candice Shavon Flynn, also known as Shannon Chadwick or Candy Flynn, 34, of Knoxville. She is charged with 15 counts of TennCare fraud, and four counts of theft of services. The Knox County Sheriff’s Office assisted in Flynn’s arrest.

“People who misrepresent something about themselves in order to qualify for TennCare are going to be caught and prosecuted,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said. “TennCare fraud is a felony and a conviction could mean jail time and paying restitution to the state for any medical services received.”

The TennCare fraud charge carries up to a two-year sentence.  Two of the theft of services charges carry up to six years in prison, and the other two carry up to four years in prison. District Attorney General Randall Nichols 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."