Daycare Worker Arrested for Child Abuse in Bainbridge

News Summary

A daycare worker in Bainbridge, Georgia has been arrested on multiple counts of child abuse after a one-year-old boy was found with severe injuries. The accused, Yvette Thurston, was terminated from her position at Little Blessings Child Care following an investigation initiated by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning. Surveillance footage reportedly shows the alleged assault, prompting community concern over childcare safety. The injured child’s family is demanding thorough accountability as the investigation continues.

Bainbridge, Georgia – A daycare worker has been arrested for child abuse after a one-year-old boy was found with serious injuries at Little Blessings Child Care. Yvette Thurston, 54, is facing three counts of first-degree child abuse and one count of first-degree aggravated battery following an incident that took place this week.

The arrest occurred on Monday after the father of the injured toddler, Cory Weeks, reported the alleged abuse to authorities. Surveillance footage collected during the investigation is reported to show Thurston physically assaulting the child. The daycare, situated near the Florida border, is currently under investigation by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL).

Weeks shared disturbing images of his son, Clay, on social media, which revealed a black eye, significant swelling on the right cheek, and several cuts. The injuries were sustained on Clay’s first day at the daycare, and his older brother, Wyatt, who is three years old, was also present. Initially, the family was informed that another child had caused the injuries with a plastic toy, adding to their distress and confusion regarding the circumstances.

After the incident, Clay was treated at Memorial Hospital and Manor, where medical professionals assessed his injuries. Investigators from Decatur County confirmed that they had accessed video evidence, which has played a crucial role in the ongoing inquiry into the events at Little Blessings Child Care.

In light of the alarming discovery, DECAL has initiated a thorough investigation regarding the daycare’s practices and employee conduct. A spokesperson from DECAL announced that Thurston had been terminated from her position at the facility, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of children in their care.

The family of the injured child has expressed their determination to ensure that the matter is fully investigated and not overlooked. The specifics of the allegations against Thurston, as well as the details surrounding the incident itself, are still being clarified as the investigation proceeds.

Thurston has posted a $44,000 bond after her arrest, allowing her to be released while the legal process unfolds. It remains unclear whether she will face additional charges as further evidence is reviewed.

Little Blessings Child Care, which is associated with the Bainbridge Church of God, has not publicly commented on the situation. Attempts to reach representatives from the daycare for a statement have been unsuccessful, leaving families and the community with unresolved questions regarding safety measures and oversight within the facility.

This situation raises significant concerns not only about the welfare of the children at the center but also about the broader implications of childcare provider accountability in Georgia. As the investigation continues, the local community is closely watching developments in this case and the potential for systemic changes in daycare operations to prevent future incidents of abuse.

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