Davidson County Woman Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE – A Davidson County woman has been charged with TennCare fraud involving prescription drugs.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Pamela Butler, 59, of Nashville. The arrest was the result of a joint effort with the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department.

Butler has been charged with one count of TennCare fraud and one count of attempt to obtain a controlled substance by fraud.  Butler allegedly attempted to pick up a forged prescription for the painkiller Lortab, using TennCare to pay for it.

“Law enforcement agencies, pharmacies and other providers are all working together to extinguish the prescription drug abuse problem in Tennessee,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said.  “Officials are especially vigilant about looking out for this crime among TennCare members.”

District Attorney Victor S. Johnson, III will prosecute. If convicted, Butler could serve up to four years on the obtaining a controlled substance by fraud which is a class D felony and could serve two years for the TennCare fraud charge, which is a class E felony.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $2.5 million paid in restitution and recoupment to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $171 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures.  To date, over 1,000 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 www.tn.gov/tnoig and follow the prompts that read "Report TennCare Fraud."