MEMPHIS, TN – Authorities in Memphis have arrested a mental health facility employee accused of dousing a patient with scalding water, leaving him hospitalized with serious burns.
Police allege that Monoteus Brown, 33, committed the assault on September 17 at a group home serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Brown faces charges of aggravated assault and aggravated abuse of a vulnerable adult, according to court filings from Shelby County.
The incident came to light after a resident at the facility reported to his program manager that staff member Brown had thrown boiling water onto his back. When the manager checked, the patient was found to have severe burns covering his upper back. Emergency responders transported the man to a hospital, where he remained for about a week undergoing treatment for his injuries.
Police responded to the call at the group home located in the 5300 block of South Rock Ridge Road. Initial efforts focused on caring for the victim and securing the scene. Investigators spent several days following up with those involved before gathering more detailed accounts. About a week after the incident, detectives interviewed both the patient and the program manager to piece together what happened.
During the interviews, the patient reportedly disclosed additional allegations against Brown, including claims that the employee had previously punched, kicked, and even pointed a firearm at him. Court documents note the resident’s diagnoses, which include bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and explosive disorder.
When officers presented the patient with a photographic lineup, he reportedly identified Brown as his attacker. Investigators noted that the patient displayed visible, significant burns on his upper back during the follow-up interview.
Brown was taken into custody Monday and booked into the Shelby County Jail. He was scheduled to appear via video arraignment on Tuesday, and a hearing regarding his bail was set for Wednesday.
The state’s department overseeing mental health and disability services regulates the facility, which is operated by Support Solutions of the Mid-South. Officials have not commented on Brown’s employment status or whether any further action has been taken regarding oversight at the home.
Authorities say the investigation is ongoing as they review facility procedures and interview additional staff and residents. There is no indication at this time whether further charges may result.