The mother of a 21-year-old Arkansas man who died while in the care of a state developmental center says she is continuing to push for reforms after reaching a settlement with the state.
Mother Seeks Changes After Son’s Death
Angela Stephens, the mother of Zachary Moore, recently received a $725,000 settlement from Arkansas following her son’s death at the Southeast Arkansas Human Development Center in Warren.
Stephens said her goal is not only accountability but also preventing similar tragedies in the future.
Death at State Facility
According to state investigators, Moore was restrained for nearly 13 minutes and given a chemical restraint during an incident in September 2025.
Officials later determined he was not breathing and he was pronounced dead.
Moore, who had a rare genetic condition affecting his development, was 21 years old.
Employees Face Criminal Charges
Authorities have charged six former employees with manslaughter and neglect of a vulnerable person in connection with Moore’s death.
The defendants were expected to appear in court to either enter plea agreements or proceed toward trial.
Calls for Reform
Stephens said she wants stronger oversight, improved staff training, and better safeguards for people living in state care facilities.
She has vowed to continue advocating for changes across Arkansas’ developmental centers to help protect other vulnerable residents.
