INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana State Board of Nursing today accepted an agreement between Monserrate Shirley and Attorney General Greg Zoeller’s office to temporarily suspend her nursing license.

Zoeller said Shirley’s license suspension is effective immediately and will remain in place until the outcome of her criminal trial is known. Shirley was charged by the Marion County Prosecutor’s office for her alleged role in causing a gas explosion in her Indianapolis home to collect insurance money.

“This case highlights the state’s efforts to monitor licensed professionals and bring appropriate action against them when necessary to ensure the public is protected,” Zoeller said. “Our office will continue to watch this case as the criminal proceedings unfold before determining whether a formal complaint will be filed.”

On Jan. 11, Zoeller’s office filed a petition to temporarily suspend Shirley’s license with the board and she later agreed to the suspension. The agreement was voted on today during a scheduled board meeting held in Indianapolis.

In November, an explosion occurred at Shirley’s home destroying the residence and nearby houses – totaling about $4 million in damages. The explosion resulted in the death of two people and caused physical injury to several neighbors.

On Dec. 20, Shirley was charged in Marion County with murder, conspiracy to commit arson and arson.

Zoeller said his office will work with the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office and await the outcome of the criminal proceedings before determining whether a formal licensing complaint will be filed. If Shirley is found not guilty, she could petition the board to be removed from the summary suspension.

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