A 51-year-old former Southaven elementary school teacher is now in custody after a grand jury indictment accused her of abusing a vulnerable person, according to court records. Booking information identifies the woman as Renee Harris, who faces counts listed as abuse of a vulnerable person and assault on a vulnerable person, and is being held at the DeSoto County Adult Detention Facility.
As first reported by WREG, a DeSoto County grand jury returned the indictment on March 24, and Harris was booked following that action. The station said the details came from online court records and sources familiar with the case.
Arrest and Booking
The county's online jail docket, maintained by the DeSoto County Adult Detention Facility, lists recent bookings and charges and shows Harris currently in custody. The public listing provides booking details that confirm her detention at the facility.
School Ties
Harris had previously worked as a teacher at Southaven Elementary before leaving the district, according to reporting. WREG said it contacted DeSoto County Schools for comment. The school lists its address as 8274 Claiborne Drive in Southaven on its official site.
What the Charges Mean
Abuse of a vulnerable person and assault on a vulnerable person are prosecuted under Mississippi's Vulnerable Persons Act and related criminal statutes. State materials and case law note that felonious abuse of a vulnerable person can carry penalties of up to 20 years in prison, and the law defines a "vulnerable person" broadly to include those whose ability to provide for their own care is impaired. The Mississippi Legislature provides the statutory language and penalties.
What Happens Next
Because a grand jury returned an indictment, Harris is expected to be scheduled for arraignment in DeSoto County Circuit Court. Any upcoming hearings, bond details, and additional filings should appear on the county docket associated with her detention information. This story will be updated as public records and officials release further information.
