Department of Finance & Administration
Mark Emkes, Commissioner

WHITE COUNTY MAN CHARGED WITH TENNCARE DRUG FRAUD

NASHVILLE – A White County man is charged with TennCare fraud in an indictment that accuses him of selling prescription drugs that were purchased at the pharmacy with TennCare benefits.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of the White County Sheriff’s Office, today announced the arrest of Bojan Williams, 22, of Sparta.

The indictment in White County charges Williams with one count of TennCare fraud, accusing him of obtaining a controlled substance by using TennCare pharmacy benefits, while concealing the fact the he planned to sell a portion of the drug.

“The abuse of TennCare pharmacy benefits is high on our radar, and we get help from providers and law enforcement officers across the state in identifying abusers,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said.  “The state, the General Assembly and Tennessee citizens have no tolerance for the illegal resale of prescription drugs, especially when TennCare is involved.”

The TennCare fraud charge against Williams could result in a two year sentence, if convicted. District Attorney General Randall York 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 1,400 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."