A Florida mother is facing a felony child abuse charge after police say she punched a 10-year-old girl in the face at a Bay County daycare facility.
What Happened?
On April 24, Latoya Gaines, 48, of Panama City, arrived at a local daycare to pick up her children. A dispute broke out over a single-occupant bathroom that a 10-year-old girl was using.
According to the arrest affidavit, Gaines demanded the child exit the restroom. When the girl asked her to wait her turn, the situation turned violent.
The Attack
Police say Gaines struck the 10-year-old in the face with a closed fist, leaving visible bruising around the child’s eye. Gaines then left the facility on foot with her two daughters.
Witnesses Confirmed It
Multiple witnesses at the daycare corroborated the incident. The victim’s mother came forward to report the assault and advised she wished to pursue charges.
What Gaines Said
When police reached Gaines by phone, she allegedly admitted to being involved in the altercation. On Facebook, she later claimed she was innocent, writing that people who know her would know she did not do this.
Charges and Court Date
Gaines is currently facing a felony charge of child abuse. She is out on bond and scheduled for arraignment in Bay County on June 11.
— Coverage by thecmeaglet.com
