Department of Finance & Administration
Mark Emkes, Commissioner

DAVIDSON CO. WOMAN CHARGED WITH AIDING HUSBAND IN TENNCARE FRAUD

NASHVILLE – A Davidson County woman is accused of aiding and abetting her husband in order for him to fraudulently obtain TennCare medical benefits that he did not qualify for.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the help of Metro Nashville Police, today announced the arrest of Theresa H. Morrow, also known as Theresa Gayle Wardlow, 44, of Nashville.

An indictment issues two charges against Morrow: that she made a materially false or fraudulent statement in connection with an investigation of TennCare fraud; and, that she aided and abetted her husband, James Morrow, to obtain medical assistance benefits through TennCare even though he wasn’t eligible for the program.  

“This sends the strong message that people who try to ‘game’ the system are going to lose, and go directly to jail,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said.  “Taxpayers and the state no longer tolerate this activity, as we are committed to preserving TennCare for people who need and are eligible for TennCare health insurance benefits.”

One of the charges against Morrow, making a false statement, is a class D felony, which carries a sentence of up to four years in prison; the other, aiding and abetting in TennCare fraud, is a class E felony and carries a sentence of up to two years in prison.  District Attorney Victor S. Johnson, III, 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 1,400 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."