Cheatham County Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE - A Cheatham County woman is charged with TennCare fraud for using TennCare to pay for a forged prescription.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Constance C. Minis, 25, of Ashland City, who faces a felony charge for obtaining TennCare benefits by fraud.  Minis was charged when she appeared in court on related charges.

The TennCare fraud charge against Minis accuses her of presenting a forged prescription to a pharmacy in Cheatham County, and using TennCare to pay for it.   

“We have a zero tolerance policy when it comes to prescription drug fraud in TennCare,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “Local doctors, pharmacists and police departments are also committed to eliminating prescription drug abuse, especially when TennCare is used in the crime.”

If convicted Minis could be sentenced up to two years in prison on the charge against her, which is a Class E felony. Cheatham County District Attorney General Dan M. Alsobrooks 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."