Shelby Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Shelby County woman is charged with fraudulently obtaining TennCare healthcare insurance benefits in connection with making false claims about dependent children.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, today announced the arrest of Lashandra Rucker, 35, of Memphis. She is charged with two counts of TennCare fraud and theft of property over $10,000. The indictment says that for two years, Rucker intentionally made false statements to the state, claiming her minor child as a member of her household in order to be eligible for TennCare benefits.

“It’s a simply message that we are carrying across the state, if you lie, cheat or steal in order to receive TennCare benefits, you will get caught,” Inspector Manny Tyndall said.  “People who commit TennCare fraud are taking something they’re not entitled to, and they’re taking it from all the taxpayers of Tennessee.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison per charge.  Theft of property over $10,000 is a Class C felony punishable by up to six years in prison.  District Attorney General Amy T. Weirich is prosecuting.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to more than $3 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of more than $163.6 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. To date, 2,489 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 go to https://www.tn.gov/tnoig.