Dekalb Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A DeKalb County woman is charged with TennCare fraud involving doctor shopping for controlled substances.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), assisted by DeKalb County Sheriff’s Officers, today announced the arrest of Ashley Morgan, 27, of Liberty.  She is charged with fraudulently using TennCare to obtain a controlled substance by visiting multiple doctors in a short period of time in order to obtain prescription drugs.

“We have open cases in almost every county in Tennessee,” Inspector General Manny Tyndall said. “We’re committed to stopping this type of activity so TennCare will be there for people who need healthcare and can’t afford it.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison.  District Attorney General Bryant C. Dunaway will be prosecuting this case.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $3 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $163.6 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. To date, 2,346 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 visit Report TennCare Fraud and follow the prompts that read "Report TennCare Fraud."