Former TDOC official, health care exec accused in $123M contract scheme face fed charges

Federal prosecutors have charged Wesley Olan Landers, the former CFO of the Tennessee Department of Correction, and Jeffrey Scott Wells, a high-ranking health care executive, in connection with a scheme to manipulate a $123 million contract awarded to Centurion. The charges include conspiracy to obstruct justice and perjury, stemming from allegations that Landers shared confidential bidding information with Wells during the contract bidding process. This misconduct was uncovered during a lawsuit filed by Corizon, a competing health care company that lost out on the contract, claiming that Centurion was favored under terms only it could meet. Following the discovery, both men were terminated from their positions, and they reportedly took steps to delete evidence of their communications. Prosecutors revealed that Landers used personal email and messaging apps to share sensitive information with Wells.

If found guilty, they face up to five years in federal prison, raising questions about ethical practices in public contracts. This case underscores the importance of integrity and accountability in government operations, particularly in the context of taxpayer-funded services. The investigation continues as more details emerge regarding the bidding process and the implications for public trust.