Franklin County Man Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE – A Franklin County man is charged with TennCare fraud for using the program to obtain prescription drugs, which he later sold.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Billy L. Hill, 38, of Tullahoma. The arrest was the result of a joint effort with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department.

Hill was indicted on one count of TennCare fraud, two felony counts of sale of a controlled substance, two felony counts of delivery of a controlled substance and two counts of possession of a controlled substance with the intent to sell or deliver.  Hill is accused of presenting a prescription for the painkiller Hydrocodone and the stimulant Amphetamine, using TennCare to pay for the prescriptions and concealing the fact he planned to sell a portion of the drugs.

“We are working with local police officers across the state, as they often discover a connection to TennCare during 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 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."