Hamilton County Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE – A Hamilton County woman is accused of using TennCare to fraudulently obtain a controlled substance.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Marquita Latreese Holland-Davis, 25, of Chattanooga.  Arrest warrants accuse her of obtaining a controlled substance by fraud and TennCare fraud.  The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the case.

“Prescription drug fraud has been a significant burden on the health care system,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “We’re committed to eliminating this crime in the TennCare program, and local police and providers across the state are working with us in this effort.”  

TennCare fraud is a class E felony carrying a penalty of up to two years in prison. The controlled substance charge against Holland-Davis is a class D felony that carries a penalty of up to four years in prison. District Attorney General William H. Cox, III is prosecuting.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $2.5 million paid in restitution and recoupment to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $171 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures.  To date, over 1,000 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."