A Tennessee organization that assists troubled youth, Youth Villages, is under scrutiny after the family of a 17-year-old girl, Alegend Jones, alleges she was "assaulted and battered" by counselors. The incident occurred at Youth Villages' group home in Bartlett, where Jones resided.

On November 16, Jones was hospitalized following an incident at the group home and tragically passed away later. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump held a news conference to address the situation, claiming that two male counselors took Jones to a health department for an examination. Allegedly, the counselors instructed Jones to undress, but she refused to do so in their presence.

According to Crump, the counselors then "body slammed" the teenager. Police were summoned by medical personnel at the health department, but Jones was ultimately returned to Youth Villages. Crump further alleged that upon her return, "over a dozen counselors" at the facility "assaulted and battered" Jones.

Youth Villages has categorically denied these allegations, stating that there were no instances of abusive or inappropriate behavior towards Jones. The organization clarified that two female staff members accompanied Jones to the health department and emphasized that she was never left alone with male staff or asked to undress in front of them.

Youth Villages claimed that Jones experienced a "medical emergency," and staff promptly followed emergency medical protocols. Emergency Medical Services swiftly arrived at the scene. The organization expressed its condolences and stated that it is saddened by the loss of a child, assuring that their thoughts are with the family during this difficult time.

The Bartlett Police Department, in conjunction with the Tennessee Department of Children's Services, has launched an investigation into the incident. Jones had resided at Youth Villages for just over two months, and her mother, Shona Garner-White, spoke at the news conference, highlighting her daughter's struggles with mental health issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder, manic depression, and bipolar disorder.

Garner-White sent her daughter to Youth Villages to seek help, emphasizing her shock and grief at receiving her back in a casket. Jones was remembered as a joyful and vibrant individual, with aspirations of becoming a nurse to assist others facing similar circumstances.

Attorney Ben Crump called for a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the events leading to Jones' death, demanding answers and justice for the family. Youth Villages stated its commitment to cooperate fully with official investigations and work with relevant public safety and health authorities.

The tragic death of Alegend Jones has raised serious concerns about the care provided at Youth Villages and highlights the need for a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding her passing. The grieving family seeks closure and accountability for those responsible for this devastating loss.