Davidson Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE – A Davidson County woman is charged with TennCare fraud for filling fraudulent prescriptions and using TennCare to pay for them.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) along with Metro Nashville police today announced the arrest of Kayla Marie Dubois, 25, of Nashville.  She is charged with TennCare fraud, identity theft, and obtaining a Schedule III controlled substance by fraud.  Authorities say she fraudulently obtained the painkiller Lortab by the unauthorized use of a medical provider’s name and DEA numbers, using TennCare to pay for the forged prescriptions.

“Prescription drug abuse – or the business of illegally selling prescription drugs – can drive people to do things they know are not legal and will have repercussions,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said.  “But Tennesseans will not stand for tax dollars to be used this way, and we are intent on stopping this activity in TennCare.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony, carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison. Obtaining a controlled substance by fraud and identity theft both are Class D felonies that carry a sentence of up to four years in prison. District Attorney Victor S, Johnson, III 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."