Obion Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE – An Obion County woman is charged with TennCare fraud and theft of property in connection with accessing TennCare healthcare insurance benefits.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of 40-year-old Jessica Allen. Investigators say she failed to reveal all household income on state documents so that she and her household could remain on the program. As a result, TennCare paid for than $42,289 in fees and claims on their behalf.  

“OIG prides itself on protecting Tennessee’s great citizens and their important tax dollars,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said. “We will continue to pursue those attempting to take advantage of our Medicaid system and bring them to justice.”

Theft of property is a class C felony and TennCare fraud charge is a class D felony. The case is being prosecuted by District Attorney General Tommy A. Thomas serving Obion and Weakley Counties.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has identified and investigated over 130,349 potential fraud cases leading to more than $9.2 million being repaid to TennCare. In the last year ending June 30, 2021, total estimated cost avoidance was more than $7.5 million, according to the latest figures. The TennCare budget is comprised of 65 percent federal and 35 percent state dollars.  To date, 3,143 people have been charged with TennCare Fraud. 

To access the OIG most wanted list, visit https://www.tn.gov/finance/fa-oig/fa-oig-most-wanted.html. Anyone with information about a wanted subject is urged to use the contact information on the page. 

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.”