Sullivan Co. Man Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Sullivan County man is charged with TennCare fraud for selling prescription drugs paid for by TennCare.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Robert G. Blevins, Jr., 45, of Bristol, after a joint investigation with the Bristol Police Department.

Blevins was served on TennCare fraud charges during arraignment in Sullivan County Criminal Court on charges related to this case. He’s accused of using TennCare benefits to obtain the painkiller Hydrocodone, and on three separate occasions, he sold a portion of the drugs to an undercover informant.

“We are working with municipal and county police officers across the state, as they are often the first to discover a TennCare element during local drug investigations,” Inspector General Manny Tyndall said.  “Local police are clearly committed to eliminating prescription drug abuse, and we’re doing our part to stop abusers who are supporting this lifestyle with TennCare.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony, carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison. District Attorney General Barry P. Staubus is prosecuting.

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, 2,368 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 go to Office of Inspector General and follow the prompts that read "Report TennCare Fraud."