Franklin County Man Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE – A Franklin County man has been charged with TennCare fraud for selling prescription drugs paid for by TennCare.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Louis Sean Matthews, 39, of Huntland, after a joint investigation with the Winchester Police Department.

Matthews faces a number of charges: three counts of TennCare fraud, two counts of delivery of a controlled substance, one count of delivery of a legend drug, two counts of possession of a controlled substance with the intent to sell or deliver, one count of possession of a legend drug, two counts of sale of a controlled substance, and one count of sell of a legend drug. 

He is accused of using TennCare to fill prescriptions for the pain medications Hydrocodone and Soma, as well as Xanax, then selling a portion of the pills.

“We are working with municipal and county police officers across the state, as they often discover a TennCare element during local drug investigations,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner 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.”

The TennCare fraud charge against Waller could result in a two year per charge sentence and the drug charges could result in four years per charge if convicted. District Attorney General J. Michael Taylor is prosecuting.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $2.5 million paid in restitution and recoupment to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $171 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures.  To date, over 1,050 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 www.tn.gov/tnoig and follow the prompts that read "Report TennCare Fraud."