Monroe County Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE – A Monroe County woman is charged with TennCare fraud in Loudon County, for selling prescription drugs paid for by TennCare.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Amanda Lynn Brown, 36, of Vonore, after a joint investigation with the Loudon County Sheriff’s Office.  She is charged with TennCare fraud and sale and delivery of a Schedule II controlled substance.  Charges say Brown filled a prescription for the painkiller Oxycodone, which was paid for by TennCare, then sold a portion of the pills.

“We have zero tolerance for people who use TennCare to buy drugs and then sell them to people in our communities,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said.  “These drugs can be dangerous in the wrong hands.”

The TennCare fraud charge against Brown could result in a two year sentence, if convicted. District Attorney General Lawrence Russell Johnson 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."