Maury County Woman Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE, TN – A Maury County woman is charged with TennCare fraud in Marshall County in connection with the illegal distribution of prescription drugs paid which had been paid for using TennCare benefits.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Jennifer Rose White Dawes, 21, of Culleoka, after a joint investigation with the Giles and Marshall County Sheriffs’ Offices.

Dawes is charged with TennCare fraud in an indictment that says she used TennCare benefits to obtain a prescription for the painkiller Hydrocodone while planning to unlawfully distribute a portion of the prescription. 

“Selling prescription drugs on the street – especially strong painkillers – is a threat to families and communities,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said.  “Citizens, law enforcement and providers have joined together to stop this activity, and we’re committed to eliminating it from TennCare.”

The TennCare fraud charge against Dawes could result in a two year sentence, if convicted. District Attorney General Robert Carter 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 1,900 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."