Two West Tennessee Residents Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – People in Carroll and Gibson Counties in West Tennessee are charged with TennCare fraud involving prescription drugs.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with assistance from Carroll and Gibson County Sheriff’s Deputies, today announced the unrelated arrests.

In Carroll County, Carlie Hutchison, 21, of Greenfield is charged with two counts of fraudulently using TennCare to obtain controlled substances by doctor shopping – which involves going to multiple doctors in a short period of time to obtain controlled substances and having TennCare pay for either the office visit or prescription.

In Gibson County, Tracey D. Fesmire, 35 of Humboldt, is also charged with two counts of fraudulently using TennCare to doctor shop for prescription drugs.  

“Prescription drug abuse is a national problem, but we’re working to eliminate the crime from TennCare,” Inspector General Manny Tyndall said.  “Local officials have been incredibly helpful because they also want to stop prescription drug abuse in their communities.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison per charge. 

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to more than $3 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of more than $163.6 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. To date, more than 2,500 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 go to https://www.tn.gov/tnoig.