Texas Daycare Worker Accused of Abusing Toddlers

A Texas daycare worker faces severe charges after allegedly abusing toddlers, leaving parents and authorities shocked.

At a Glance

Catherine Guziejka has been accused of abusing six toddlers at Punkin’ Doodles Day Care in Lindale, Texas.
The alleged abuse was discovered after a staff member viewed video footage and informed a parent.
Guziejka allegedly kicked toddlers, dragged them by their arms, and stood on their hands as punishment.
She was arrested on October 30, facing six counts of injury to a child with intent to cause bodily harm.
The daycare has been sold to a new owner who plans to rebrand the business.

Shocking Abuse Uncovered at Texas Daycare

In a disturbing case that has rocked a Texas community, daycare worker Catherine Guziejka has been accused of abusing six toddlers at Punkin’ Doodles Day Care in Lindale. The alleged abuse came to light after a staff member viewed video footage and alerted a parent, leading to a swift investigation by authorities.

According to reports, Guziejka allegedly kicked a 2-year-old boy and dragged toddlers by their arms. The Smith County Sheriff’s Office is reviewing footage that shows Guziejka kicking toddlers on 134 separate occasions between July and October. The children, all two years old, were often targeted while watching TV or during naptime, highlighting the vulnerability of the victims.

Texas daycare worker allegedly kicked toddlers more than 100 times, stood on their hands as punishment https://t.co/L1tDFKjmkr

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Violent and Unprovoked Actions

The sheriff’s office has described Guziejka’s actions as intentional and violent, with no apparent provocation from the children. Deputies noted that the toddlers were not disruptive, making the alleged abuse even more shocking.

In addition to kicking, Guziejka allegedly moved and adjusted children aggressively, dragged them by their arms, and stood on their hands as punishment. One particularly disturbing incident captured on video showed her standing on a child’s hand for seven seconds, causing evident pain.

Swift Action and Legal Consequences

Upon discovery of the abuse, the daycare owner took immediate action. Guziejka was fired and arrested on October 30, facing six counts of injury to a child with intent to cause bodily harm. The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services has barred her from working in facilities caring for vulnerable people.

Legal consequences for such abuse can be severe, potentially including felony charges, prison time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Professionally, Guziejka risks losing any childcare-related licensure or certification, effectively ending her career in childcare.

Impact on Families and Community

The case has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving parents devastated. The breach of trust is particularly painful for families who entrusted their children’s care to Punkin’ Doodles Day Care.

In response to the incident, the daycare has been sold to a new owner who plans to rebrand the business. This move aims to restore trust and provide a fresh start for the facility, though the emotional impact on affected families will likely linger.

As the legal process unfolds, the community is left grappling with the aftermath of this shocking betrayal of trust. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and proper vetting in childcare settings to ensure the safety and well-being of our most vulnerable citizens.