Marshall Co. Man Must Repay State in TennCare Fraud Case

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Marshall County man is ordered to repay the state more than $22,000 in a case where he was charged with TennCare fraud.  

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced that David Tucker, 56, was sentenced in Marshall County, where he was accused of enrolling in TennCare by falsely reporting his income. Tucker must repay the state a total of $22,020.85 for benefits he received while he was on the program.

Tucker was arrested in November of last year, when he was charged by the OIG with TennCare fraud and theft of property over $10,000. The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney General William B. Bottoms. 

“We appreciate the communication, collaboration and perseverance of the District Attorneys‘ offices across the state of Tennessee in bringing prosecution of TennCare fraud to the forefront of our communities,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said. “Our office will continue to do our part and preserve the integrity of TennCare benefits, so that those truly deserving of and eligible for TennCare have the best resources.”

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated over 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, 3,072 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.”