Memphis, Tennessee, December 4, 2025
Queen Ester Reese, a 74-year-old caregiver in Memphis, has been arrested for allegedly abusing a male patient with intellectual disabilities. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation launched an investigation following a referral from Adult Protective Services, leading to the discovery of physical and emotional abuse. The charges against her include allegations of mistreatment of a vulnerable adult, highlighting the ongoing need for vigilance in protecting disabled individuals. Reese’s bond is set at $2,500, and she is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Memphis Caregiver Arrested for Abusing Intellectually Disabled Man, TBI Says
Memphis, Tennessee – Queen Ester Reese, a 74-year-old caregiver, was arrested on December 2, 2025, on charges of abusing a vulnerable adult. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) initiated the arrest after an investigation revealed that Reese was involved in the physical and emotional abuse of a male patient with intellectual disabilities.
Details of the Arrest
Reese was employed at a group home when the abuse occurred. Following a referral from Adult Protective Services in November, TBI agents conducted an investigation and determined that Reese had mistreated the patient. An arrest warrant was obtained, leading to Reese’s arrest on December 2. She was booked into the Shelby County Jail with a bond set at $2,500.
Background Information
The TBI’s Medicaid Fraud Control Division is responsible for investigating allegations of abuse involving vulnerable adults. In this case, the division acted upon a referral from Adult Protective Services, which is tasked with protecting vulnerable individuals from abuse and neglect. The investigation into Reese’s actions underscores the ongoing efforts to safeguard vulnerable adults in Tennessee.
Legal Considerations
The charges against Reese are allegations of criminal conduct. Under the U.S. legal system, a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The case will proceed through the judicial system, where further details will be examined, and Reese will have the opportunity to respond to the charges.
Related Incidents in Memphis
This incident is part of a broader pattern of caregiver-related abuse cases in Memphis. In April 2025, Bernice Jarrett was arrested after six adults with intellectual disabilities were found living in inhumane conditions on a bus. One of the individuals later died, leading to charges against Jarrett for neglect of a vulnerable adult.
Community Impact
Cases like these highlight the critical importance of vigilance and reporting in protecting vulnerable adults. Community members are encouraged to report any suspected abuse or neglect to appropriate authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of those who cannot protect themselves.
Conclusion
The arrest of Queen Ester Reese serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in safeguarding vulnerable adults. It underscores the necessity for continuous oversight, thorough investigations, and community involvement to prevent abuse and ensure the protection of those who are most at risk.
What were the charges against Queen Ester Reese?
Queen Ester Reese was charged with abuse of a vulnerable adult after an investigation revealed she was involved in the physical and emotional abuse of a male patient with intellectual disabilities.
What is the TBI’s role in this case?
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation’s Medicaid Fraud Control Division investigated the allegations against Reese, leading to her arrest.
What is the legal status of the charges?
The charges against Reese are allegations of criminal conduct. Under the U.S. legal system, a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Have there been similar cases in Memphis?
Yes, in April 2025, Bernice Jarrett was arrested after six adults with intellectual disabilities were found living in inhumane conditions on a bus. One of the individuals later died, leading to charges against Jarrett for neglect of a vulnerable adult.
How can the community help prevent such abuse?
Community members are encouraged to report any suspected abuse or neglect to appropriate authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable adults.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Queen Ester Reese, 74-year-old caregiver |
| Charges | Abuse of a vulnerable adult |
| Victim | Male patient with intellectual disabilities |
| Investigation | TBI’s Medicaid Fraud Control Division |
| Arrest Date | December 2, 2025 |
| Bond Amount | $2,500 |
| Related Case | Bernice Jarrett’s arrest in April 2025 for neglect of vulnerable adults |
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Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
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