Department of Finance & Administration
Larry B. Martin, Interim Commissioner

WILSON COUNTY WOMAN CHARGED WITH TENNCARE FRAUD

NASHVILLE, TN - A Wilson County woman is charged with TennCare fraud in an indictment accusing her of falsely reporting her income to the state in order to obtain TennCare benefits.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) and the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office today announced the arrest of Tabatha N. Ferebee, 23, of Lebanon. She is accused of not disclosing her true income to the state in order to get TennCare benefits, which she otherwise would not have qualified for.

“Our message is simple - if you lie, cheat or steal to get TennCare benefits, you risk going to jail or prison,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “People who commit TennCare fraud are taking something they are not entitled to receive.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two 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 1,600 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.