Jackson Co. Woman Charged 2nd Time with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE, TN - A Jackson County woman is charged with TennCare fraud for using the state’s Medicaid program to obtain prescription drugs which she later apparently sold or gave away.  This is her second time to face this charge.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of the Gainesboro Police, today announced the arrest of Ashley R. Robbins, 24, of Gainesboro.

Robbins is charged with TennCare fraud for using TennCare benefits to obtain a prescription and concealing the fact she planned to sell or give away a portion of the drugs.  She was first arrested last week and charged in Smith County with TennCare fraud for similar activity.

“We make gains every day in getting prescription drugs off the streets of Tennessee, by going after people using TennCare to obtain drugs,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said.  “We will continue to be aggressive with this effort.”

The TennCare fraud charge against Robbins could result in a two year sentence, if convicted. District Attorney General Tom P. Thompson 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 2,000 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.