KNOX COUNTY WOMAN CHARGED WITH TENNCARE DRUG FRAUD

NASHVILLE, TN - A Knox County woman is accused of TennCare fraud for trying to use benefits to pay for an altered prescription for the addictive painkiller Oxycontin.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), which is separate from the TennCare bureau, today announced the arrest of 42-year old Debra Jett of Knoxville. She was indicted on charges of TennCare fraud and attempting to obtain a controlled substance by fraud.

“Oxycontin abuse is a huge problem for law enforcement in Tennessee, but with the help of local officers and providers, we are waging war on prescription drug fraud of any kind in TennCare,” Inspector Genera Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “We appreciate the providers, local law enforcement officials and citizens who provide us with valuable information in our efforts to identify and prosecute TennCare fraud.”

District Attorney Randall E. Nichols will prosecute the case. Obtaining a controlled substance by fraud is a Class D felony that carries a maximum of four years in prison. Illegally obtaining TennCare medical benefits is a Class E felony that carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison.

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.tncarefraud.tennessee.gov and follow the prompts that read “Report Fraud Now.”