Department of Finance & Administration
Larry B. Martin, Interim Commissioner

LAWRENCE COUNTY MAN CHARGED WITH TENNCARE FRAUD

NASHVILLE – A Lawrence County man is charged with TennCare fraud for selling prescription drugs paid for by TennCare, the state’s managed care public health insurance program.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Ravis Jerome Madden, 51, of Lawrenceburg, after joint investigation with the Lawrenceburg Police Department.

Madden is charged with one count of TennCare fraud, and is accused of using TennCare benefits to obtain a prescription for the painkiller Hydrocodone while planning to sell a portion of the prescription.

“When local police officers work drug cases in their communities, they often find a link to TennCare and we work with them to bring TennCare fraud charges in addition to other charges brought by local officials,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “Local police are clearly committed to eliminating prescription drug abuse, and we’re working to end this kind of abuse in the TennCare program.”

The TennCare fraud charge against Madden could result in a two year sentence, if convicted. District Attorney General Mike Bottoms 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."