MARION COUNTY, Fla. – New surveillance videos released by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office show instances of abuse by a 31-year-old daycare worker who was arrested earlier this week, according to sheriff’s officials.
Laura Flores, who was arrested Monday, worked at Bright Beginnings Learning Center at 14950 U.S. Highway 441 in Summerfield.
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The sheriff’s office said the victims were 13 months old.
Deputies responded to the learning center on Feb. 13 and reviewed the surveillance video, which showed Flores forcefully picking up a child and throwing a child onto a mat.
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One of the videos released by the sheriff’s office showed Flores hitting the back of a child’s head, causing the child to fall face-first onto the floor.
The sheriff’s office said there were also moments when 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.
Bright Beginnings Learning Center shared the following statement after 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 on three counts of child abuse. She was taken to the Marion County jail, where she was later after posting bond.
Her arraignment is scheduled for March 31.
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