Pickett County Woman Charged For 2nd Time With TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE – A Pickett County woman is charged for the second time with TennCare fraud involving the resale of prescription medication. 

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) with the assistance of the Pickett County Sheriff’s Office announces the arrest of 61-year-old Judith A. Gilliam, of Byrdstown.

Gilliam was charged with one count of TennCare fraud for obtaining a prescription of the painkiller Percocet from a local physician and concealing the fact she planned to sell a portion of the pills.

Gilliam was previously arrested by the OIG in May 2006 and charged with two counts of TennCare fraud for selling the painkiller Oxycontin, paid for by TennCare, to an undercover agent.

“This sends a clear message that we are not going to allow drug diversion activity to continue in the TennCare program,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said.  “We’re working hard to bring justice to people who abuse the program.”

If convicted, Gilliam could spend up to two years in prison.  District Attorney General Randy York will be prosecuting. 

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $2.6 million paid in restitution and recoupment to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $159 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures. 

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.tncarefraud.tennessee.gov and follow the prompts that read "Report TennCare Fraud."