Giles County Pair Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE, TN – Two Giles County residents are charged in separate cases with TennCare fraud involving prescription drugs.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Shirley M. Stone, 56, and 38-year old John Kilgore, both of Pulaski.  The arrests are the result of a joint investigation with the Pulaski Police Department.

Stone is accused of using TennCare benefits to obtain the prescription pain medication Lortab, while intending to sell a portion of the drugs.

Kilgore is charged in connection with using TennCare benefits to obtain a prescription for a similar pain medication, Ibudone, while planning to sell a portion of the prescription.

“Tennesseans won’t allow this kind of abuse of the state’s public health program, especially considering the amount of prescription drugs that are being sold illegally,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said.  “TennCare drug fraud is one of our prime targets, and we’re working these cases across the state.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony, carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison.  District Attorney General Mike Bottoms will prosecute.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $3.5 million paid in restitution and recoupment to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $173 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures.  To date, over 1,700 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."