Hancock Co. Man Charged with TennCare Fraud

Thursday, April 02, 2015 | 12:00am

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Hancock County man is charged with TennCare fraud involving prescription drugs.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Christopher Seal, 28, of Sneedville.  He was indicted by a Grainger County Grand Jury and charged with altering a legitimate prescription for the drug Suboxone by changing the quantity, then using TennCare benefits to pay for the forgery.  Suboxone is a drug used to treat addiction to drugs such as morphine or heroin because it creates a similar affect without addictive qualities.  Seal is charged with TennCare fraud and forgery.  The Bean Station Police Department and the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office assisted in his arrest.

“Prescription drug fraud takes many forms, and altering the prescription to change the quantity is one of those methods pharmacists must keep a watchful eye for,” Inspector General Manny Tyndall said.  “We’re thankful pharmacists are not only catching this type of activity but the doctor shoppers as well.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony, carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison.  District Attorney General James B. Dunn is prosecuting the Grainger County Case.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $3 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $163.6 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. To date, 2,322 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 from anywhere in Tennessee, or log on to Office of Inspector General and follow the prompts that read "Report TennCare Fraud."