Department of Finance & Administration
Mark Emkes, Commissioner

RUTHERFORD COUNTY WOMAN CHARGED WITH TENNCARE FRAUD

NASHVILLE – A Rutherford County woman is charged with TennCare fraud for selling prescription drugs paid for by TennCare.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Stacie A. Mahaffey, 40, of Murfreesboro, after a joint investigation with the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office and the Murfreesboro Police Department.

Mahaffey is charged with one count of TennCare fraud in charges accusing her of filling a prescription for the painkiller Hydrocodone, which was paid for by TennCare, and then selling a portion of the pills.

“Enrollees who participate in selling prescription drugs paid for by TennCare – and those who buy them – should understand this is a serious crime the Office of Inspector General intends to prosecute to the fullest letter of the law,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner stated. “If you engage in this criminal activity the OIG will investigate and prosecute you.”

The TennCare fraud charge against Mahaffey could result in a two year sentence, if convicted. District Attorney General William C. Whitesell, Jr. 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."