Putnam Co. Man Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Putnam County man is charged with TennCare fraud involving the illegal sale of prescription drugs that were paid for using TennCare benefits.                        

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of the Cookeville and Baxter Police Departments, today announced the arrest of William Jason Cooper, 35, of Baxter. He is accused of selling and delivering the painkiller Oxycodone, after obtaining the drug using TennCare benefits.

“We could not have as much success without local law enforcement officers helping us identify these cases, build evidence, or assist in making the arrests,” Inspector General Manny Tyndall said. “We hope everyone will continue to assist us by letting us know when they suspect TennCare fraud.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison per charge.  District Attorney General Bryant C. Dunaway is prosecuting.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to more than $3 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of more than $163.6 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. To date, 2,456 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 go to https://www.tn.gov/tnoig.