NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A Monroe County woman has been sentenced after being convicted of TennCare fraud and theft of services, according to Tennessee’s Office of Inspector General.
Officials said 34-year-old Bridgett Garrett of Vonore failed to notify TennCare that she no longer had custody of her child, a change that would have made her ineligible to continue receiving TennCare benefits.
As a result of the investigation, Garrett was convicted on one count of TennCare fraud and one count of theft of services.
State officials said the improperly received benefits led to financial losses for the TennCare program.
“Our responsibility is to ensure TennCare resources are protected and available to those who legitimately qualify for assistance,” Inspector General Chad D. Holman said in a statement. “Cases like this reinforce the importance of holding individuals accountable when they attempt to take advantage of the program.”
As part of her sentence, Garrett received:
- Three years of Tennessee Department of Correction supervised probation for TennCare fraud
- Four years of Tennessee Department of Correction supervised probation for theft of services
- An order to pay $13,824.73 in restitution
The Office of Inspector General investigates allegations of TennCare fraud and works with local and state prosecutors to pursue criminal charges when appropriate.
Officials encourage members of the public to report suspected TennCare fraud. Tennessee residents may be eligible for a cash reward if information they provide leads to a conviction.
Suspected fraud can be reported through the Tennessee Office of Inspector General or by calling 1-800-433-3982.
