Department of Finance & Administration
Mark Emkes, Commissioner

ANDERSON COUNTY MAN CHARGED WITH TENNCARE FRAUD

NASHVILLE, TN - An Anderson County man is charged with TennCare fraud in nearby Knox County on a warrant accusing him of trying to use his son’s TennCare benefits to pay for a prescription for the addictive painkiller Percocet.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Anthony Eugenne Morgan, 44, of Clinton.  He was charged after a joint investigation with the Knox County Sheriff’s Office. 

“Local police as well as medical providers are clearly committed to eliminating prescription drug abuse,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said.  “We will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute anyone from attempts to abuse the TennCare program.”

If convicted, the TennCare fraud charge against Morgan could result in a two-year sentence.  District Attorney General Randall Nichols 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 1,600 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."