Montgomery County Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE – A Montgomery County woman is charged with TennCare fraud for using the program to obtain prescription drugs which she later sold.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) announced the arrest of Tiffany R. Shrum, 30, of Chapmansboro. The arrest was the result of a joint effort with the 19th Judicial District Drug Task Force.

Shrum was indicted on one count of TennCare fraud, one count of sale of a controlled substance and one count of delivery of a controlled substance for obtaining a prescription for the anti-anxiety medication Adderall, paid for by TennCare, while concealing that she intended to sell a portion of it.

“We are working with municipal and county police officers across the state, as they often discover the TennCare element of this activity during drug investigations,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “Local police are clearly committed to eliminating prescription drug abuse, and we’re doing our part to stop abusers who are supporting this lifestyle with TennCare.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison, sale of a Scheduled II controlled substance and delivery of a Scheduled II controlled substance are both Class C felonies, punishable by two to seven years in prison. District Attorney General John W. Carney will be 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 1,240 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."