Mid-State Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud in Dickson Co.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Hickman County woman is charged with TennCare drug fraud in nearby Dickson County.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Misty Ingram, 37, of Bon Aqua. She is charged by a Dickson County Grand Jury with TennCare fraud and selling the painkiller morphine, a Schedule II Drug, which she obtained by using TennCare benefits.

“The prescription drug abuse problem crosses all boundaries of economics and demographics,” Inspector General Manny Tyndall said. “We’re cracking down on the misuse of TennCare all over the state to stop fraud and theft against taxpayers.”

District Attorney General Ray Crouch, Jr is prosecuting the case. TennCare fraud is now a Class D felony punishable by up to four years in prison.

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, 2,832 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 the website and follow the prompts that read “Report TennCare Fraud.”