Bradley Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, TN – A Bradley County woman is charged with TennCare fraud. The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Mary Hembree, 47, of Cleveland, after a joint investigation with the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office.

Hembree is charged with TennCare fraud in an indictment accusing her of knowingly obtaining TennCare healthcare insurance benefits through a false statement, representation, or impersonation or by concealment of a material fact or other fraudulent means.

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison. District Attorney General R. Steven Bebb is prosecuting.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $3.5 million paid in restitution and recoupment to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $173 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures.  To date, over 1,800 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."