INDIANA – An Indiana mother faces fraud and child neglect charges after allegedly deceiving a local assistance organization to obtain nearly $97,000 for a feeding tube her child did not need, authorities announced Friday.
Alanna Brown was arrested and charged with fraud and neglect of a dependent resulting in bodily injury. She allegedly claimed her child required feeding tubes and experienced aspiration while eating, fraudulently obtaining $96,688.44 in grant money over 22 months.
Multiple witnesses contradicted Brown’s claims about her child’s medical needs, according to investigators. The child’s father, preschool teacher, and a family friend all stated the child did not require the feeding tube, raising red flags about Brown’s assertions.
A Ring camera recording provided damning evidence against Brown. In the footage, she expressed concern about losing financial support, saying she would “refigure my bills…because I’m not going to lose a f***ing payment from her so she can eat.”
Medical records revealed troubling details about the child’s condition. When hospitalized in April, the child showed signs of moderate malnutrition. However, after being removed from Brown’s care in October, the child gained weight, suggesting the feeding tube was not medically necessary.
The child’s father reportedly was prevented from attending medical appointments, limiting his ability to verify the claimed medical conditions. Investigators believe this was part of Brown’s scheme to maintain control over the narrative surrounding the child’s health.
Brown was released on a $2,000 bond following her arrest. The case has sparked outrage in the community over the alleged exploitation of a child for financial gain.
Authorities have not disclosed the name of the assistance organization that provided the grants or whether it has implemented new verification procedures following the case. The organization’s vetting process for medical claims is expected to come under scrutiny.
The investigation continues as prosecutors build their case against Brown. Child protective services have taken custody of the child, who is reportedly recovering well under proper care.
Medical fraud cases involving children remain a serious concern for law enforcement and child welfare agencies across the country. Authorities urge organizations to carefully verify medical claims and maintain oversight of grant recipients.
