Bradley County Man Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE – A Bradley County man is charged with TennCare fraud for using the program to obtain prescription drugs, which he later sold.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), assisted by the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office, today announced the arrest of Cody Jarred Prince, 19, of Cleveland.  An indictment in Bradley County accused him of one count each of TennCare fraud and sale or delivery of a Schedule II controlled substance.  Charges say he used TennCare benefit to obtain a prescription for the painkiller Percocet at a local pharmacy, while planning to sell a portion of the drug.

“The Office of Inspector General is aggressively pursuing individuals engaged in TennCare fraud statewide,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said. “This is our 19th arrest in July, with many more cases in the pipeline.  If you commit TennCare fraud, you will go to jail.”

The TennCare fraud charges against Prince could result in a two year sentence if convicted. District Attorney General R. Steven Bebb 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 1,700 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."