Rutherford County Man Sentenced in TennCare Fraud Case

NASHVILLE – A Rutherford County man charged with TennCare fraud has been ordered to serve time in prison for his conviction on fraud and related charges.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the conviction of Christopher B. Cregger, 31, of Murfreesboro.   He pleaded guilty to three counts of TennCare fraud, one count of identity theft and one count of criminal simulation. 

Cregger was ordered to serve one calendar year in a state prison followed by four years of supervised probation.  He must also pay $1,746.20 in court costs, a $2,000 fine for the charges and restitution to TennCare of almost $500.

Cregger was arrested by the OIG this past February for using his son’s TennCare card and social security number in order to obtain prescription medication.

“The fraudulent misuse of TennCare benefits is a serious issue, but Tennessee is cracking down on these cases,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “Crucial to our success is the cooperation of local healthcare providers and local law enforcement agencies.”

District Attorney General William Whitesell, Jr., prosecuted the case.

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 $165 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures. To date, over 920 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."