Visiting Nurse Found Dead in CT Halfway House: The Tragic Story of Joyce Grayson and Michael Reese

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Title: Lack of Oversight and Repeated Violations: Tragic Death of Visiting Nurse Raises Concerns

Subtitle: New Haven man, previously convicted of assault, under scrutiny after nurse’s murder

On a fateful summer morning in 2006, a New Haven man made a horrifying discovery on his front porch. A bloodied and naked woman, with multiple stab wounds, was leaning against a fence in a nearby cemetery. The man immediately called 911, and police rushed to the scene. They later identified the attacker as Michael Reese, a man the eyewitness recognized as someone he played chess with at the local library.

Reese was eventually found guilty of first-degree assault and first-degree sexual assault. In June 2007, he was sentenced to 25 years in prison, with a chance of release after 17 years. However, Reese was released after serving only 14 years in April 2021. He was placed on probation until 2031.

Over the next two years, Reese repeatedly violated his probation by failing drug tests, noncompliance with treatment, and missing court appointments. As a result, he was sent back to prison multiple times. However, he was released early again and placed in a transitional house on probation.

Tragically, last month, visiting nurse Joyce Grayson lost her life during a routine visit to Reese’s transitional house. Grayson’s body was discovered in the basement by police, who were alerted by her worried family. Reese, who was found in possession of Grayson’s belongings, was taken into custody at the scene.

Reese has not been charged in connection with Grayson’s death. However, his probation officer identified him as a suspect due to the evidence found in his possession. The lack of round-the-clock supervision in the transitional home has raised concerns about oversight and safety measures for residents.

Attorney Kelly E. Reardon, representing Grayson’s family, plans to file a lawsuit examining the failures in both the criminal justice and healthcare systems. Reardon questions how and why Reese ended up in the transitional house and if there was adequate supervision. The absence of full-time or daytime supervision in the program has been highlighted as a potential failure.

Reese had a history of substance abuse and mental health issues, which contributed to his repeated probation violations. He failed multiple drug tests, testing positive for various substances, including cocaine and alcohol. Although he was referred to a state-run mental health facility, Reese failed to attend a phone screening and was denied a bed when he eventually did.

In light of Grayson’s tragic murder, state legislators and healthcare workers have called for increased protection for visiting healthcare workers. Suggestions include providing escorts for in-home visits, emergency call buttons, self-defense training, and better communication about patients’ behavioral health and criminal histories.

The healthcare company Grayson worked for, Elara, has implemented immediate changes to improve safety for their employees. This includes piloting a personal safety training course and exploring options such as wearable personal alarms and pepper spray.

The case highlights the need for improved oversight in transitional housing and a comprehensive approach to addressing the intertwined issues of substance abuse, mental health, and violent behavior. Efforts are underway to tighten regulations and protect healthcare workers who provide vital services to vulnerable populations.

As the investigation into Grayson’s death continues, her loved ones mourn the loss of a dedicated healthcare worker who selflessly cared for others. The tragedy serves as a wake-up call to address the failures that allowed Reese to repeatedly violate his probation, placing innocent lives at risk..