Franklin County Man Charged with TennCare Fraud

ASHVILLE – A Franklin County man is charged with TennCare fraud and obtaining a controlled substance by fraud.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Alfred Hill, 54, of Decherd, after a joint investigation with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office.  Hill is charged with one count of TennCare fraud and two counts of obtaining a controlled substance from a local pharmacy by means of fraud.

“Tennesseans are committed to eliminating prescription drug abuse, especially when the TennCare program is being defrauded, “Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said.  “The Office of Inspector General will continue to aggressively seek out anyone who has a desire to commit this crime.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony, carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison.   Obtaining a controlled substance by fraud is a Class D felony that carries a sentence of up to four years in prison per charge.  District Attorney General J. Michael Taylor is prosecuting.

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 1,600 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."