Hardin County Woman Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

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

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) announced the arrest of Kristina G. Franklin, 35, of Savannah, after a joint investigation with the Savannah Police Department.

Franklin has been charged with one count of TennCare fraud.  She is accused of filling a prescription for the painkiller Hydrocodone at a local drugstore, using TennCare to pay for the pills, and then selling a portion of the pills to another individual.

“We are working with municipal and county police officers across the state, as they want to stop this activity as much as the citizens in our communities,” 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 Franklin could result in a two year sentence, if convicted. District Attorney Hansel McCadams 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 1,100 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."