Shelby Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Shelby County woman is charged with TennCare fraud and theft of services for failing to report her employment status and household income in order to obtain TennCare benefits she otherwise was not eligible to receive.  

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of 34-year old Brandy Rose on two counts of TennCare fraud and two charges theft of property.  She’s accused of failing to report her employment and household income in order to obtain TennCare healthcare insurance benefits for herself and her son. As a result, TennCare paid approximately $70,800 in fees and claims on behalf of the two.   

“Providing false information in order to qualify for TennCare benefits is a crime in the state of Tennessee,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said. “OIG works diligently to protect taxpayers’ state and federal dollars by investigating those who lie to obtain our Medicaid benefits.”

The theft of property charges are class C felonies and the TennCare fraud charges are class D felonies. If convicted, Rose could face up to 54 years in prison.  The case is being prosecuted by District Attorney General Amy T, Weirich of Shelby County.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated over 5,760 criminal cases leading to more than $10.8 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, 3,081 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 or by logging on to www.tn.gov/oig/ and following the prompts that read “Report TennCare fraud.”