Kentucky Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Hopkinsville, Kentucky woman is charged with TennCare fraud and theft of property in connection with allegedly claiming she lived in Tennessee in order to obtain healthcare insurance benefits through TennCare.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), in a joint effort with the Hickman County Sheriff’s Office today announced the arrest of Christina L. Wetterau, 36, of Hopkinsville, Kentucky. She is charged with TennCare fraud and theft of property over $10,000 but under $60,000.

Investigators say Wetterau allegedly reported a Tennessee residence in order to obtain TennCare benefits when her actual residence was in nearby Kentucky, resulting in TennCare paying $14,291.91 in fees and claims on her behalf.

“The Office of Inspector General is determined to catch people who take advantage of Tennessee’s Medicaid program,” Inspector Kim Harmon said. “Our agency strives to protect our taxpayers’ hard- earned money by investigating those who choose to commit fraud.”

The theft of property charge is a class C felony and the TennCare Fraud charge is a class D felony.  If convicted, Wetterau could face penalties of up to a maximum of 27 years in prison. The case is being prosecuted by District Attorney General Kim R. Helper of Hickman County.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated more than 5,760 criminal cases leading to more than $10.8 million ordered in restitution to TennCare.  This has helped lead to a total estimated cost avoidance of more than $163.6 million for TennCare, according to the latest figures. To date, 3,157 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 or by logging on to www.tn.gov/oig/ and following the prompts that read “Report TennCare Fraud.”