Lauderdale Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Lauderdale County woman is charged with TennCare fraud for selling her prescription drugs, which were paid for by TennCare.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Office, today announced the arrest of Deanna Midkiff, 20, of Ripley.

Midkiff is charged with TennCare fraud and delivery of a Schedule III controlled substance in a drug-free zone.  The charges say she used TennCare benefits to obtain the painkiller hydrocodone, and later sold a portion of the drug to an undercover informant within 1000 feet a public park.

“We are working with municipal and county police officers across the state, as they investigate prescription drug cases,” Inspector General Manny Tyndall said.  “Local police are clearly committed to eliminating prescription drug abuse, and we’re doing our part to stop abusers who are supporting this lifestyle with TennCare.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony, carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison.  Sale of a Schedule III controlled substance is a Class D felony punishable by up to four years in prison.  District Attorney General D. Michael Dunavant is prosecuting.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $3 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $163.6 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. To date, 2,371 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."