HICKMAN COUNTY WOMAN CHARGED WITH TENNCARE FRAUD

NASHVILLE – A Hickman County woman has been charged with TennCare fraud for selling prescription drugs paid for by TennCare.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Dorothy Ann Waller, 40, of Nunnelly, after a joint investigation with the 23rd Judicial District Drug Task Force.

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

“We are working with local police officers across the state to eliminate prescription drug abuse and TennCare fraud,” stated Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “This activity is high on our zero tolerance list.”

The TennCare fraud charge against Waller could result in a two year sentence if convicted. District Attorney Kim Helper is prosecuting.

The OIG, a law enforcement agency separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has worked cases leading to the arrest of over 700 individuals for TennCare fraud, with nearly $1 million paid in restitution to TennCare, and total estimated cost avoidance in TennCare of over $122 million, according to latest figures.

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.tncarefraud.tennessee.gov and follow the prompts that read "Report TennCare Fraud."