SEVENTH ARREST IN HUMPHREYS CO. TENNCARE FRAUD, DRUG STING

NASHVILLE – A seventh person is charged in an undercover TennCare and drug fraud investigation in Humphreys County, bringing to 30 the number of people arrested in the sting.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced that Donna R. Turner, 48 of Waverly is charged with TennCare fraud, obtaining drugs by fraud and selling controlled drugs. Turner joins six others busted through an undercover informant working with the Waverly Police Department. They’re all accused of selling prescription drugs paid for by TennCare.

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, 230 people have been charged with TennCare fraud, leading to 57 convictions for TennCare fraud and 14 cases resolved.

“Certain prescription drugs are classified as controlled substances because they have a dangerous potential for abuse and can have deadly consequences,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said. “TennCare pays for such medications when prescribed under the direction and supervision of a physician and we are committed to pursuing those cases where people are abusing that system from any angle.”

If convicted of the felony charges, Turner could face up to six years in prison. District Attorney Dan M. Alsobrooks and Assistant District Attorney Lisa Donegan will prosecute the case.

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.”