MARION COUNTY, Fla. – A 31-year-old daycare worker was arrested on Monday after surveillance footage showed multiple instances of alleged abuse involving children at an Marion County learning center, according to the sheriff’s office.
Detective said they responded to Bright Beginnings Learning Center located at 14950 U.S. Highway 441 in Summerfield on Feb. 13 regarding a reported child injury.
According to a news release, officials reviewed classroom surveillance footage, which showed the worker – identified as Laura Flores – forcefully picking up a child and throwing the child onto a mat.
As detectives continued reviewing footage, they found additional incidents involving two other children, including Flores striking a child on the back of the head and kicking another, causing the child to fall face‑first onto the floor, officials said.
Detectives also documented separate incidents in which Flores struck a child in the abdomen, placed her foot on a child lying on the floor during nap time, and swaddled a child before slapping the child across the face, the sheriff’s office said.
Bright Beginnings Learning Center shared the following statement regarding Flores’ arrest:
We are aware of the arrest of a former employee in connection with an ongoing investigation. The individual is no longer employed at Bright Beginnings Learning Center.
When concerns were identified, we immediately reported the matter to the appropriate authorities and fully cooperated with the Department of Children and Families and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. We provided complete access to our surveillance system and documentation and continue to assist as requested.
The safety and well being of the children in our care is our highest priority. Due to the active investigation and privacy laws protecting the children involved, we are unable to comment further at this time.
Bright Beginnings Learning Center
Flores was arrested and taken to the Marion County Jail, where she is being held on a 15,000 bond, officials said.
She faces three counts of child abuse, according to the release.