Two People in Warren County Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE – Two people in Warren County are indicted for TennCare fraud related to prescription drugs paid for by TennCare.  

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrests of Jimmy J. Wimley, 71, and Steven Nelson, 31, both from McMinnville.  The arrests are the result of an investigation also involving officers with the Warren County Sheriff’s Office and the McMinnville Police Department.

Wimley is charged with one count of delivery of a Schedule III controlled substance, the painkiller dihydrocodeinone, and one count of TennCare fraud for selling the painkiller Hydrocodone, paid for by TennCare.

Nelson is charged with one count of TennCare fraud and one count of selling the painkiller Hydrocodone.

“People who participate in selling drugs paid for by TennCare – and those who buy them – should understand this is a serious crime we intend to prosecute,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said.

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison. District Attorney General Liza Zavogiannis 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 1,100 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."