Roane County Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE – A Roane County Grand Jury has charged a woman with TennCare fraud related to selling prescription drugs paid for by TennCare.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Bonnie Medlock, 27, of Rockwood. The arrest is the result of a joint effort with the Roane County Sheriff and City of Rockwood Police.

Medlock was arrested on an indictment alleging that she sold the prescription painkiller Oxycodone, which was paid for with TennCare benefits. Medlock has been charged with one count of TennCare fraud.

“Enrollees who participate in selling drugs paid for by TennCare – and those who buy them – should understand this is a serious crime we intend to prosecute,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said.

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two 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 $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 1,240 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."