Warren County Woman Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE - A Warren County woman is charged in Franklin County with TennCare fraud for selling prescription drugs paid for by TennCare.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Corinna Padgett, 40, of McMinnville after a joint investigation with the Warren County Sheriff’s Office and the McMinnville Police Department.

Padgett is charged with one count of TennCare fraud for obtaining a prescription for the stimulant Phentermine, a diet pill, with the intention of reselling the medication to others.

“We are working with municipal and county police officers across the state to eliminate prescription fraud as it relates to the TennCare program,” said Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner. “It’s illegal to sell prescription drugs, even if a doctor prescribes the medication; and with most drugs, some side effects can be dangerous to some people.”

The TennCare fraud charge against Padgett could result in a two year sentence, if convicted. District Attorney 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 1,100 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."