NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Smithville, Tennessee man is charged with TennCare fraud and theft of services. 

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced that 34-year old Grant Lynch is charged in Putnam County, his former residence. Both charges are class D felonies. Investigators allege that Lynch reported to the state that he had custody of his child so that the child would be eligible for TennCare. As a result, TennCare paid approximately $2,800 in fees and claims on behalf of the child.  

“Providing false information in order to receive TennCare benefits will not be tolerated in the state of Tennessee,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said. “Our agency works diligently to save both state and federal Medicaid dollars from being stolen.”

The case is being prosecuted by District Attorney General Bryant C. Dunaway of Putnam County.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated more than 5,760 criminal cases leading to more than $10.8 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of more than $163.6 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. To date, 3,105 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 or by logging on to www.tn.gov/oig/ and following the prompts that read “Report TennCare fraud.”