Overton Co. Man Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE, TN - An Overton County man is charged with TennCare fraud in an indictment relating to obtaining a controlled substance by fraud.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Phillip Cody Jackson, 19, of Livingston, after a joint investigation with the Livingston Police Department.

Jackson is charged with TennCare fraud for fraudulently obtaining a prescription for the painkiller Oxycodone, paid for by TennCare.

“Across the board, Tennessee law enforcement officers, healthcare providers, and citizens are committed to eliminating prescription drug abuse, especially within the TennCare program,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said.  “We are working drug fraud cases across the state.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony, carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison.   District Attorney General Randall A. York 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 1,900 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."