Roane Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Roane County woman is charged with TennCare fraud for selling prescription drugs paid for by the state’s healthcare insurance program.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of both the Roane County Sheriff and Kingston Police Department, today announced the arrest of Constance Daniels Young, 29, of Kingston.

Young is charged with TennCare fraud and sale of a Schedule III controlled substance. She is accused of using TennCare benefits to obtain the painkiller Hydrocodone, later selling a portion to an undercover informant.

“We work with municipal and county police officers across the state to identify cases where TennCare is involved in local drug investigations,” Inspector General Manny Tyndall said.  “Local police are clearly committed to eliminating prescription drug abuse, and we’re doing our part to stop abusers who are supporting this lifestyle with TennCare.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison.  The sale of a Schedule III controlled substance is a Class D felony punishable by up to four years in prison.   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 $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, 2,383 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."