A 50-year-old senior caretaker in Jonesboro, Arkansas, faces felony theft charges after keeping nearly $20,000 from a payroll mistake that paid her $1,650 per hour.
Incident Overview
Rene Nichole Coleman worked at Superior Senior Care, an in-home care provider north of Memphis. She earned $16.50 per hour until a payroll error on May 10 boosted her rate to $1,650 for a 12-hour shift, totaling $19,388.
Employer’s Response and Investigation
Superior Senior Care discovered the glitch and filed a theft report with Jonesboro police in August. Records show Coleman spent the funds on repairs to her husband’s semi-truck and refused to return the money.
A detective contacted Coleman, who agreed to discuss the issue but failed to appear at the station. Authorities then issued an arrest warrant.
Arrest and Charges
Police arrested Coleman on April 4. She posted bond of $15,000 and was released two days later, sharing on social media: “Yes Lord I am free.”
Prosecutors charged her with theft of more than $5,000 but less than $25,000, a Class C felony. Conviction could bring three to ten years in prison or a $10,000 fine. She has not entered a plea.
Upcoming Court Proceedings
Coleman’s arraignment is set for May 18 before Craighead County District Judge David Boling. Her employment status with Superior Senior Care remains unclear.
