Sumner County Man Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE – A Sumner County man is charged with TennCare fraud in Davidson County.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of the Metro Nashville Police, today announced the arrest of Justin A. Lewis, 20, of Goodlettsville.

Lewis was indicted by a Davidson County Grand Jury and charged with one count of TennCare fraud for obtaining by fraudulent means medical assistance benefits through TennCare for which he was not entitled to.

“It’s a simple message that we are carrying across the state - if you lie, cheat or steal to get TennCare benefits, you risk going to jail or prison,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “People who commit TennCare fraud are taking something they’re not entitled to, and they’re taking it from all the taxpayers of Tennessee.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison. District Attorney General Victor S. Johnson, 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 1,400 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."