Occupational Therapist Pleads Guilty to One (1) Count of Permitting Child Abuse and Four (4) Counts of Contributing to the Delinquency of Juvenile
Sonia F. Hagood, Prosecuting Attorney for the Second Judicial District, announced that Mary “Tracy” Morrison has pleaded guilty to one count of Permitting Child Abuse and four counts of Contributing to the Delinquency of a Juvenile.
Morrison was sentenced to sixty (60) months’ probation for Permitting Child Abuse and twelve (12) months’ probation for each count of Contributing to the Delinquency of a Juvenile.
She will also serve thirty (30) days in the county jail. Upon release, Morrison will complete 120 days of house arrest with electronic monitoring.
As a result of her guilty plea, Morrison is prohibited from working with children in any professional capacity and will surrender her occupational therapy and related licenses. Additionally, she must complete a mental health assessment, comply with all recommended treatment, and have no contact with the victim.
This case was prosecuted by Chief Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Jessica Thomason and Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Katie Calaway.
On April 17, 2025, the victim’s mother reported to the Craighead County Sheriff’s Office that her 13-year-old child had been subjected to mental and physical abuse at the ENGAGE School and The Delta Institute for Developing the Brain. A review of video footage obtained through a search warrant showed Morrison directing other students to place their hands on the juvenile, who was positioned in the center of a circle. The footage further shows Morrison physically striking the child with an unknown object and placing her hands on the child. After the incident, Morrison can be seen giving the juvenile a high five.
“This resolution ensures that the victims are not required to relive these events through the court process and secures conditions that protect the community going forward,” said Chief Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Jessica Thomason.
“Morrison will no longer be permitted to work with children.”
“This outcome reflects a thorough evaluation of the evidence, the applicable law, and the best interests of the victim,” said Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Katie Calaway.
“It imposes meaningful restrictions and accountability while prioritizing the wellbeing of those affected.”
The Second Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney’s Office will continue to evaluate each case based on the facts, the law, and the needs of victims, while working to ensure appropriate accountability and safeguards for the community.