Memphis, October 3, 2025
News Summary
Tareka Lashun Smith, a caregiver in Memphis, has been arrested by the TBI for exploiting vulnerabilities in vulnerable adults at a local care facility. Over a period, she made unauthorized ATM withdrawals totaling more than $42,000 from 21 victims. Smith was indicted for Financial Exploitation of a Vulnerable Adult and is currently being held on a $150,000 bond. The investigation, initiated in July 2024, aims to highlight the need for better oversight in care facilities to protect vulnerable populations from financial abuse.
Memphis – Tareka Lashun Smith, a 43-year-old caregiver from Memphis, has been arrested following an investigation by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigationโs (TBI) Medicaid Fraud Control Division. The arrest comes as authorities responded to allegations of financial exploitation of vulnerable adults residing in a Shelby County care facility.
The investigation into Smith’s activities began on July 1, 2024, after Adult Protective Services referred the case to the TBI. The inquiry uncovered that between November 2022 and July 2024, Smith exploited the vulnerabilities of 21 victims by utilizing their bank cards to make unauthorized ATM cash withdrawals. The total amount that Smith is accused of withdrawing without authorization exceeds $42,000.
On June 26, 2024, a Shelby County Grand Jury formally indicted Smith for Financial Exploitation of a Vulnerable Adult. Shortly after the indictment, Smith was booked into the Shelby County Jail on July 1, 2024, where she is currently being held on a $150,000 bond.
The TBIโs Medicaid Fraud Control Division plays a crucial role in investigating cases of this nature and is significantly funded through federal and state resources, receiving 75% of its funding from a federal grant provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the remaining 25% from the State of Tennessee.
It is important to note that the charges against Smith are merely allegations of criminal conduct, and she is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Background on Financial Exploitation in Care Facilities
Financial exploitation of vulnerable adults is a growing concern across the United States. Care facilities are meant to provide support and protection to individuals who may not be able to fully care for themselves. However, cases like that of Tareka Lashun Smith reveal the potential for abuse within such settings.
Experts emphasize the importance of vigilant oversight and reporting systems to prevent these types of exploitations. Organizations such as the TBI’s Medicaid Fraud Control Division play critical roles in detecting and investigating allegations of fraud and abuse within care environments.
As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to explore further details surrounding the cases of the other victims involved and determine additional measures to safeguard vulnerable populations from similar financial abuses in the future.
Overview of Key Case Details
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Individual Involved | Tareka Lashun Smith |
| Age | 43 years old |
| Location | Memphis, Tennessee |
| Number of Victims | 21 |
| Amount Withdrawn | Exceeded $42,000 |
| Charges Filed | Financial Exploitation of a Vulnerable Adult |
| Arrest Date | July 1, 2024 |
| Bond Amount | $150,000 |
| Investigation Start Date | July 1, 2024 |
| Indictment Date | June 26, 2024 |
FAQ
What are the charges against Tareka Lashun Smith?
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What was the total amount of unauthorized withdrawals?
When did the investigation into Smith begin?
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Additional Resources
- Local 3 News: Memphis Caregiver Arrested for Abuse
- Wikipedia: Financial Exploitation of Vulnerable Adults
- Fox 13 Memphis: 17-Year-Old Charged with Murder
- Google Search: Financial Exploitation of Vulnerable Adults
- TBI Newsroom: Shelby County Caregiver Indicted
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Vulnerable Adults Financial Exploitation
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
