Three former Memphis in-home caregivers face TennCare fraud and theft charges after time record investigation

Indictments follow a referral alleging billed hours were not worked

Three former Memphis caregivers have been charged with TennCare fraud and theft of services after an investigation into alleged falsified time records tied to in-home care for a disabled TennCare member, authorities said Monday.

The defendants were identified as Lakesha Albright, 42; Erika Humphreys, 36; and Yosha Fletcher, 36. Investigators said the three women provided in-home services to the same physically disabled TennCare member from January 2022 through June 2024 and submitted time records seeking payment for hours that were not actually worked.

The case began with a fraud referral received in June 2024. The referral was routed to the Medicaid Fraud Control Division, which investigates suspected fraud involving Medicaid-funded services, including allegations that providers billed for care that was not delivered.

What the grand jury charges allege

A Shelby County grand jury returned indictments in January 2026 charging each of the three women with one count of TennCare fraud and one count of theft of services. The allegations focus on billing records connected to TennCare, Tennessee’s Medicaid program, which pays for health and long-term care services for eligible residents.

Authorities said the alleged scheme involved fraudulent timekeeping documentation rather than a dispute over the quality of care. Investigators contend the caregivers received payment for work not performed.

• Time period cited by investigators: January 2022 through June 2024
• Referral received: June 2024
• Indictments returned: January 2026
• Charges per defendant: TennCare fraud and theft of services

Arrests in late January

Authorities reported that Albright was arrested on January 21, 2026, by the Memphis Police Department. Humphreys and Fletcher were taken into custody on January 23, 2026, by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.

Charging documents were not included in the public statements announcing the arrests, and officials did not publicly detail the amount of alleged overpayment. Court proceedings will determine how the allegations are presented, contested, and adjudicated.

How TennCare fraud cases typically move forward

TennCare fraud investigations often start with referrals generated by oversight or integrity units that review billing patterns, timesheets, and service documentation for inconsistencies. When investigators believe criminal conduct may have occurred, cases can be presented to a grand jury for indictment.

Criminal charges are accusations and do not establish guilt. Defendants are presumed innocent unless convicted in court.

The three cases are expected to proceed in Shelby County criminal court, where the defendants will have the opportunity to enter pleas and challenge the state’s evidence.