Overton Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – An Overton County woman is charged with TennCare fraud in connection with the sale of prescription drugs paid for by the state’s healthcare insurance program.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of the Overton County Sheriff’s Office, today announced the arrest of Kimberly L. Thrasher, 55, of Livingston, charged with TennCare fraud. She is accused of using TennCare benefits to obtain the painkiller Oxymorphone, and later selling a portion during an undercover police investigation.

“It is a matter of public safety,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said. “When prescriptions hit the streets, it puts our children, our most vulnerable Tennesseans, at risk.”

District Attorney General Bryant C. Dunaway is prosecuting. TennCare fraud is 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, 3,024 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.”