Two McNairy County Residents Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE, TN – Two McNairy County residents are charged separately in TennCare fraud cases, all involving prescription drugs.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrests of Casey L. Callins, 33, of Guys and Lonnie Blake Matlock, 20, of Selmer.  Their arrests were the result of an investigation with the McNairy County Sheriff’s Office and the Selmer Police Department.

Callins and Matlock are each accused of TennCare fraud in charges saying they each used TennCare benefits to obtain the painkiller Hydrocodone, while planning to sell at least a portion of the drugs.

“Prescription drug fraud is by far the largest number of cases we pursue, and we fully investigate these cases until we either bring charges or find no evidence of wrongdoing,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said.  “The simple fact is that it’s only a matter of time before anyone committing TennCare fraud is caught and brought to justice.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony, carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison.  District Attorney General D. Michael Dunavant will prosecute these cases.

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."