A Connecticut judge has approved a $2.25 million settlement in the wrongful death lawsuit filed by the husband of Joyce Grayson, a visiting nurse killed in 2023 while treating a patient at a halfway house.
The state reached the agreement with Grayson’s family but did not admit wrongdoing. Settlement talks with other defendants, including her employer Elara Caring, are ongoing.
The Crime and Conviction
Grayson, a 63-year-old mother of six and longtime nurse, was murdered on October 28, 2023, while providing care to Michael Reese, a convicted sex offender on probation after serving time for a 2006 stabbing and sexual assault.
Authorities found Grayson dead in the basement of the halfway house in Willimantic. Reese later pleaded guilty to murder and was sentenced to 50 years in prison.
Allegations of State Failures
The lawsuit alleged that state officials failed to:
- Adequately supervise Reese during probation.
- Detain him despite probation violations.
- Provide him necessary mental health and drug programs.
- Protect visiting nurses by allowing him unsupervised access despite his violent past.
Grayson’s family hopes the settlement reflects the state’s recognition of its responsibility and will lead to discussions on preventing similar tragedies.
Employer Liability Still Contested
Grayson’s husband also sued Elara Caring, accusing the company of ignoring worker safety concerns regarding dangerous patients. Elara has denied responsibility, insisting that Connecticut officials bore the duty of monitoring Reese after his release.
Legislative and Industry Response
Grayson’s death prompted Connecticut lawmakers to pass a law aimed at improving safety for home health care workers, including funding for:
- Emergency alert buttons
- Buddy escort systems
- Tracking devices
- Safety training programs
The killing also sparked national outrage, with healthcare organizations calling for stronger protections for workers facing rising threats of violence.
Workplace Violence: A Growing Crisis
According to a National Nurses United survey of nearly 1,000 nurses, more than 80% reported experiencing workplace violence in 2023, with nearly half saying it had increased compared to the previous year.
Grayson’s case has become a rallying point in efforts to prioritize safety for healthcare professionals across the U.S.
