KINGSPORT MAN CHARGED WITH TENNCARE FRAUD

NASHVILLE, TN – A Kingsport man is charged with TennCare fraud for using another person’s TennCare card to pay for fraudulently-obtained prescription drugs.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), an agency separate from TennCare, today announced the arrest of Charlie Raymond Estep, 28. He’s accused of knowingly and unlawfully obtaining TennCare medical benefits – prescription drugs – that he was not entitled to receive.

“Prescription drug fraud continues to be a problem in Tennessee, but with the help of pharmacists and local officials, we’re winning a battle against drug fraud in TennCare,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “We will continue to be diligent in our pursuit of people who are using TennCare to obtain drugs illegally.”

Forgery of a prescription is a Class E felony punishable by 1 to 2 years in prison. The Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office assisted with the arrest. District Attorney H. Greeley Wells, Jr. will prosecute.

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.”