Abuse, neglect and death

Abuse, neglect and death:
How Texas fails thousands of disabled residents

Kristi Norris died alone in her bedroom at a Fort Worth group home, restrained in a wheelchair she didn't need. When her caregivers discovered her body, they attempted to cover up their crime.

Kristi's story is one of many in Texas, where the Medicaid waiver system for individuals with disabilities is plagued by underfunding, staffing shortages and a lack of oversight.

Since 2010, there have been 80,000 investigations into allegations of abuse, neglect and exploitation in the waiver system.

Joann Pierson sits with a photo of her daughter, 36-year-old Kristi Norris, who died after being restrained in a wheel chair at a D&S Residential Services Group Home in Fort Worth in October of 2020.

A stuffed bear made from one of Kristi Norris' dresses decorates her childhood bedroom in Fort Worth, Texas.

Joann Pierson poses with a photo of her daughter, 36-year-old Kristi Norris, who died after being restrained in a wheel chair at a D&S Residential Services Group Home in Fort Worth in October of 2020. Norris had cerebral palsy and was non-verbal, but laughed often and had an affinity for colorful items and stuffed toys.

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Abuse, neglect and death: How Texas fails thousands of disabled residents

Abuse, neglect and death:
How Texas fails thousands of disabled residents