The license of Victorian Square Assisted Living in Rockwood has been suspended, leaving residents scrambling to find new homes. The Tennessee Health Facilities Commission announced the decision on March 8, citing multiple violations, particularly the failure to maintain essential services such as electricity, water, gas, proper disposal of biohazardous materials, and pest control. According to a WBIR report, the commission deemed the conditions presented "a substantial imminent risk to the resident’s health, safety, and welfare."

The facility first opened its doors in 1999 and was scheduled for license renewal on April 6. However, bearing the weight of financial mismanagement, the facility had accumulated significant utility debts. Notices from both the Rockwood Electric Utility and the Rockwood Water, Sewer and Gas indicated that services would be terminated on March 30 due to non-payment, with amounts owed totaling over $36,000 and $35,000, respectively, WATE reported.

Concerns went beyond simply unpaid bills. A state order obtained by WVLT News revealed more disturbing findings: an infestation of bed bugs in several rooms and the halted removal of biohazard material, which was being inappropriately stored throughout the premises. The order specifically stated that "there is currently bed bugs in several rooms in the facility" and that "All biohazard material is currently being stored in various places around the building."

In a statement obtained by WVLT News, the facility expressed "great sadness after 25 years of service to the Roane County Community" and described the closure as "the best at this time." The facility also noted that the care provided to residents was not at fault, but the situation was "strictly economic and financial." Residents have until March 30 to vacate, a deadline set by utility shutoffs, rather than the usual 60-day notice period. The facility offered its cooperation with government agencies to ensure safe and appropriate transfers to other facilities for its residents.

Friends and families of the Victorian Square Assisted Living residents are already in the process of moving their loved ones out. With a total of 36 current residents, the community is grappling with the fallout of the abrupt closure, which has uprooted the lives of elderly members in their care. The state is now overseeing the displacements to ensure each person is accommodated adequately.