Rhea County Woman Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE – A Rhea County woman is charged with TennCare fraud in nearby Hamilton County, in connection with selling prescription drugs.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with assistance from the Rhea and Hamilton County Sheriff’s Offices, today announced the arrest of Violet Ann Stinnett, 41, of Dayton.

Stinnett was indicted on one of TennCare fraud for presenting a prescription for the painkiller Hydrocodone and using TennCare benefits to pay for the prescriptions, with the intention of selling a portion of the drugs.

“Sheriff’s officers in Rhea and Hamilton Counties worked hard to help us with this case,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said. “That’s the kind of commitment and cooperation it will take across the state to bring an end to this activity in TennCare.”

The TennCare fraud charges against Stinnett could result in a two year sentence, if convicted. 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 $3.5 million paid in restitution and recoupment to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $173 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures.  To date, over 1,380 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."