Nashville, TN, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Marissa Jean Denton, a 36-year-old ex-nurse, was arrested for impersonating a nurse and attempting to steal medication from two Nashville hospitals. She unlawfully accessed Vanderbilt University Medical Center, trying to take Propofol, and later attempted the same at Ascension Saint Thomas Midtown. Her nursing license was revoked following previous theft incidents. The local healthcare community is now concerned about security protocols in hospitals.
Nashville
Marissa Jean Denton, a 36-year-old former nurse, has been arrested for impersonating a nurse and attempting to steal medication from two hospitals in Nashville. Denton unlawfully entered Vanderbilt University Medical Center’s Critical Care Unit on September 15, 2025, disguised as a nurse, where she attempted to take 100 mL of Propofol from a patient. She was later apprehended again on September 17, 2025, after trying to steal Propofol at Ascension Saint Thomas Midtown by using a plastic syringe to draw from a patient’s active drip.
According to police reports, Denton had previously worked for Ascension Saint Thomas in early 2024 before her nursing license was revoked. She now faces two counts of impersonating a licensed professional and theft, with a bond set at $126,000. The court hearing for her case is scheduled for September 30, 2025.
Denton was originally a licensed nurse in Maryland since 2016, allowing her to practice in 43 states, including Tennessee. After relocating to Tennessee in 2022, she began working for LHC Group in Clarksville during 2023, providing in-home healthcare services. However, her employment turned sour when she was accused of stealing an engagement ring from a diabetes patient’s wife in October 2023, a theft later confirmed by surveillance footage. Following her admission to the crime, Denton cited a “nasty divorce” and financial difficulties as reasons for her actions and was subsequently fired from LHC Group.
After being arrested for the ring theft, Denton followed court requirements and had the charge expunged. However, on November 7, 2024, the Tennessee Board of Nursing revoked her multistate nursing license for “unprofessional conduct.” Following this, she has faced increasing scrutiny for her illicit actions, resulting in her nursing privileges being revoked or suspended in multiple states.
In light of these incidents, Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital is currently investigating the events surrounding Denton’s actions and is enhancing security protocols to prevent future unauthorized access. Both hospitals involved are taking this matter seriously as they work to ensure the safety of their patients and the integrity of healthcare practices.
Background Context
Marissa Denton began her nursing career in Maryland, where she was initially licensed and practiced nursing for several years before relocating to Tennessee. Her actions over the past two years, marked by theft and impersonation, have led to a rapid decline from a healthcare provider to facing serious criminal charges. These events have not only tarnished her reputation but have also raised significant concerns about hospital security measures in the healthcare system.
Upcoming Court Date
Denton is expected to appear in court on September 30, 2025, where she will face the charges related to her recent impersonation and theft attempts.
Impact on Healthcare Community
The Nashville healthcare community is experiencing a heightened level of concern regarding the security protocols in place at local hospitals. With the incidents raising awareness about the potential for unauthorized access to sensitive areas, hospitals are reevaluating and strengthening their security measures to safeguard against similar occurrences in the future.
FAQ Section
What charges is Marissa Jean Denton facing?
Marissa Jean Denton is facing two counts of impersonating a licensed professional and theft.
What is the bond set for Denton?
The bond for Marissa Jean Denton is set at $126,000.
When is Denton’s court date?
Marissa Jean Denton’s court date is scheduled for September 30, 2025.
What led to Denton’s nursing license being revoked?
Denton’s nursing license was revoked by the Tennessee Board of Nursing for “unprofessional conduct” on November 7, 2024.
What incidents occurred at the hospitals?
Denton unlawfully entered Vanderbilt University Medical Center and attempted to take 100 mL of Propofol from a patient and later tried to steal Propofol again at Ascension Saint Thomas Midtown.
How has the healthcare community reacted to Denton’s actions?
Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital is investigating the incidents and enhancing security protocols in response to her actions.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Arrest Date | September 15, 2025 |
| Charges | Impersonating a licensed professional, Theft |
| Bond Amount | $126,000 |
| Court Date | September 30, 2025 |
| Nursing License Status | Revoked for unprofessional conduct |
| Hospital Investigations | Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital enhancing security protocols |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WSMV: Woman Charged With Impersonating Nurse
- WSMV: Woman Arrested After Posing as Nurse
- FOX17: Woman Charged with Impersonating Nurse
- Tennessean: TBI Nurse Charged with Impersonation
- Google Search: Nashville Hospital Security Breaches
Author: HERE Nashville
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