Lawrence County Parent Indicted After Falsifying Mileage Reimbursements
An investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office has resulted in the indictment of Rhonda Brown, the parent of a student with disabilities in Lawrence County. The investigation began after Lawrence County School System (LCSS) officials reported falsified mileage reimbursement forms to the Comptroller’s Office.
In 2018, LCSS entered into a contract with Brown for her child to attend another school more appropriately suited to her child’s educational needs. In addition to paying the tuition to the other school, LCSS also agreed to reimburse Brown for mileage for transportation to and from the school.
From March 2023, through October 15, 2024, Brown submitted falsified mileage reimbursement forms to LCSS totaling $36,473.
Brown claimed mileage reimbursement for more than 350 days when her child was transported to school by the Lawrence County Senior Center bus. She also submitted reimbursement requests for four days when her child was absent from school.
Based upon this investigation, in March 2025, the Lawrence County Grand Jury indicted Rhonda Brown on one count of forgery of $10,000 to $60,000.
“School officials must ensure they properly monitor and review their reimbursement process,” said Comptroller Mumpower. “This includes confirming the accuracy of the mileage reimbursement forms and paying the correct reimbursement rate based upon its contract.”
To view the investigative report, go to tncot.cc/doireports. To view a map depicting Comptroller investigations, go to tncot.cc/mappinginvestigations
If you suspect fraud, waste, or abuse of public money in Tennessee, call the Comptroller’s toll-free hotline at 800.232.5454, or file a report online at: tncot.cc/fraud. Follow us on X/Twitter @TNCOT and Instagram @tncot
Media contact: John Dunn, Director of Communications, 615.401.7755 or john.dunn@cot.tn.gov
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