Bartlett Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE - A woman currently living in Bartlett, TN is charged with TennCare fraud for allegedly living out of state but reporting a Tennessee address to TennCare.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of 48-year-old LaShundra Merriweather, who is charged with TennCare fraud, a class D felony and theft of property, a class C felony. Investigators say if Merriweather reported her correct address, she would not have been enrolled in the program. TennCare paid $29,547.19 in fees and claims on behalf of her and her children while they were allegedly fraudulently enrolled in TennCare.

“The TennCare program is designed to help those who rightfully qualify for benefits,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said. “We strive to ensure that those taking advantage of Tennessee’s Medicaid program will be brought to justice.”

The case is being prosecuted by Shelby County District Attorney General Amy T. Weirich.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has identified and investigated more than 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. TennCare's budget is comprised of 65 percent federal and 35 percent state dollars. To date, 3,146 people of been charged with TennCare fraud.

The OIG’s most wanted list of fugitives from TennCare fraud are online at 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.”