Sumner Co. Man Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Sumner County man is charged with TennCare fraud involving doctor shopping, or using TennCare to go to multiple providers in a short time period to obtain controlled substances.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with assistance from the Sumner County Sheriff’s Office, today announced the arrest of Roy Kevin Cole, 51, of Westmoreland.  He is charged with four counts of fraudulently using TennCare to obtain controlled substances by doctor shopping and four counts of obtaining a controlled substance by fraud.

"The fraudulent misuse of TennCare benefits is a serious issue but our office is out front in cracking down on these types of crimes," Inspector General Manny Tyndall said. “People intent on committing TennCare fraud are misusing taxpayer money and placing the TennCare program in jeopardy at the same time.” 

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony, carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison per charge. District Attorney General Lawrence R. Whitley is prosecuting.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $3 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $163.6 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. To date, more than 2,311 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 Office of Inspector General and follow the prompts that read "Report TennCare Fraud."