Two Rutherford Co. Residents Charged With TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Two people from Murfreesboro are charged in Davidson County with TennCare fraud for selling prescription drugs that were purchased using TennCare benefits.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Ladonna Louise Allen, 31, and Richard Anthony Matthews, 50 both of Murfreesboro.  The two were indicted by a Davidson County Grand Jury and charged with TennCare fraud and delivery of a Schedule III controlled substance in connection with using TennCare to obtain the painkiller Hydrocodone and selling a portion of the pills.

“Prescription medication should only be used when a licensed medical professional believes it’s the right therapy for that person; but, when drugs are used without medical advice, it becomes harmful to people and communities,” Inspector General Manny Tyndall said.  “We are cracking down on people who abuse TennCare to sell prescription drugs to other people.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison. District Attorney General Glenn R. Funk 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, 2,437 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.