THREE JOHNSON CITY RESIDENTS CHARGED WITH TENNCARE FRAUD

NASHVILLE - Three Johnson City residents are charged with TennCare fraud, including a man and wife who are accused of selling drugs obtained through the state's TennCare healthcare insurance program.

The Office of the Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrests of Richard A. Gerwer, 40, and Amber Gerwer, 22, both of Johnson City. In an unrelated case, Lindsey Ann Crumley, 26, of Johnson City is also accused of TennCare fraud.

Governor Phil Bredesen created the OIG, one of the first units of its kind in the nation, in 2004. Since it became operational in February 2005, 243 people have been charged with TennCare fraud, leading to 63 convictions for TennCare fraud and 14 cases resolved.

An indictment charges both Gerwers of selling alprazolam(pron. "al pray zoe lam") that had been paid for by TennCare. Alprazolam is used to treat anxiety disorders and panic attacks. The charges against the couple are Class E felonies, punishable by up to two years in prison on each offense. Bond was set at $30,000 each. Washington County District Attorney Joe Crumley, Jr., is prosecuting the case.

"The fraudulent misuse of TennCare pharmacy benefits is a serious problem in local communities across Tennessee," Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. "We are working closely with local law enforcement agencies and pharmacies to investigate and prosecute these type of crimes."

Lindsey Crumley is accused of fraudulently obtaining medical treatment to which she was not entitled through the TennCare program. The TennCare charge against Crumley is a Class E felony, punishable by up to two years in prison on each offense. Bond was set at $10,000. Washington County District Attorney Joe Crumley, Jr. is prosecuting both cases.

Anyone can report suspected TennCare fraud by calling 1-800-433-3982 toll-free from anywhere in Tennessee, or log on to www.tennessee.gov/tenncare and follow the prompts that read "Report Fraud Now."