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

ROANE COUNTY MAN CHARGED WITH TENNCARE DRUG FRAUD

NASHVILLE – A Roane County man has been charged in Loudon County with TennCare fraud for selling prescription drugs paid for by TennCare.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Roy T. Dunham, Jr., 35, of Oak Ridge, after a joint investigation with the Oak Ridge Police Department.  Dunham was being held in the Anderson County Jail on unrelated charges, he was transferred to the Loudon County Jail to be served on his current charges.

Dunham has been charged with one count of TennCare fraud.  He is accused of filling a prescription for the strong painkiller Oxycodone, using TennCare to pay for it, and then selling a portion of the pills.

“We are working to make a huge dent in the illegal drug trafficking market by eliminating the use of TennCare to subsidize the activity,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “Local police across Tennessee are also committed to eliminating prescription drug abuse in their communities.”

The TennCare fraud charge against Dunham could result in a two year sentence, if convicted. District Attorney General Russell Johnson is prosecuting.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $2.5 million paid in restitution and recoupment to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $171 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures.  To date, over 1,300 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."