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

KNOX COUNTY WOMAN CHARGED WITH TENNCARE DRUG FRAUD

NASHVILLE - A woman from Knox County is charged with TennCare fraud for trying to use TennCare to fill pharmacy prescriptions that had been forged.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) announced the arrest, which is the result of a joint effort with the Knox County Sheriff’s Office.

Courtney N. Henderlight, 21, of Knoxville, was indicted on four counts of TennCare fraud and two counts of forgery for presenting two altered prescriptions at an area pharmacy, attempting to use TennCare to pay for the drugs.

“Pharmacists across the state are becoming more and more watchful for questionable prescriptions,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “It’s especially offensive when the attempt is made to use TennCare to finance the purchase of fraudulent prescriptions.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years per charge in prison. District Attorney General Randall E. Nichols is prosecuting.

The OIG, a law enforcement agency separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has worked cases leading to the arrest of over 800 individuals for TennCare fraud, with nearly $1 million paid in restitution to TennCare, and total estimated cost avoidance in TennCare of over $122 million, according to latest figures.

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.tncarefraud.tennessee.gov and follow the prompts that read "Report TennCare Fraud."