Anderson County Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE - An Anderson County woman is charged with TennCare fraud for selling prescription drugs paid for by TennCare.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Holly M. Retherford, 20, of Oak Ridge, in a joint investigation with the Oak Ridge Police Department.

Retherford has been charged with one count of TennCare fraud.  She is accused of filling a prescription for the painkiller Darvocet, which was paid for by TennCare, then selling a portion of the pills.

“We are working with local law enforcement across the state to eliminate prescription drug fraud, especially when it impacts the TennCare program,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “The OIG is committed to eliminating TennCare prescription drug abuse.”

The TennCare fraud charge against Retherford could result in a two year sentence, if convicted.  District Attorney General David Clark 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."