Casey W. Millsaps
A Hamilton County man is charged a second time with TennCare fraud in a case involving prescription drugs.
The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of the Rhea County Sheriff’s Office, on Monday announced the arrest of Casey W. Millsaps, 22, of Soddy Daisy. He is charged in a Rhea County indictment with two counts of fraudulently obtaining the painkillers Hydrocodone and Oxycodone by doctor shopping, or going to multiple doctors in a short period of time in order to obtain prescription drugs, using TennCare as payment for the office visit or the prescription.
Millsaps was transported to Rhea County from the Hamilton County jail, where he was being held on a previous arrest for eight counts of TennCare fraud involving doctor shopping.
“Tennessee is at the top of the list of states with high prescription drug use, and pain relievers are a huge part of that in this state,” Inspector General Manny Tyndall said. “While many people are legitimately using these drugs, we’re committed to eliminating the incidence of people fraudulently obtaining drugs and letting TennCare pick up the tab.”
TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison per charge. 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 more than $3 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of more than $163.6 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. To date, 2,472 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 800 433-3982 toll-free from anywhere in Tennessee, or go to http://www.tn.gov/finance/topic/fa-oig.