Davidson Co. Man Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE, TN – A Davidson County man is charged with TennCare fraud for selling his prescription drugs, which were paid for by the state’s TennCare program.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with assistance from Metro Nashville Police, today announced the arrest of Robert Carlton Patterson, 51, of Nashville.  He is charged with TennCare fraud for the sale or delivery of the painkiller Oxycodone, obtained through the use of his TennCare benefits.

“We are working with municipal and county police officers across the state, as they’re looking for prescription drug abusers of all stripes, “Acting Inspector General Robert White said.  “Local police are clearly committed to eliminating prescription drug abuse, and we’re doing our part to stop abusers who are supporting this lifestyle with TennCare.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony, carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison. District Attorney General Victor S. Johnson, III, 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, 2,128 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."