A former employee of Elizabeth's Early Learning Center is facing serious charges after allegedly assaulting five two-year-olds at the daycare last fall.
Georgia Brown, 39, was arrested on January 9 and is now facing charges of assault and battery following an investigation by the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS).
According to the VDSS, the incidents occurred at the daycare, located at 2320 Bedford Avenue, in Lynchburg.
The investigation outlined multiple instances where Brown allegedly handled the children in a rough and inappropriate manner.
The documented incidents include the following:
October 17, 2024: Brown reportedly grabbed one child by the back of the neck after the child failed to clean up a mess, causing the child to scream and cry. She is also accused of physically pushing the same child away from another, causing the child to fall to the ground.
October 17, 2024: Brown allegedly grabbed a second child by the arm and face, pushed the child to the floor, and forced them to put away toys. The child was reportedly screaming and crying throughout the incident.
November 12, 2024: Brown allegedly grabbed a third child by the ankles and pulled them down from a piece of furniture, causing the back of the child's head to hit a nearby surface.
November 12, 2024: Brown is said to have roughly handled a fourth child during a tantrum, failing to calm the child in a gentle manner.
November 12, 2024: Brown reportedly carried a fifth child upside down when the child refused to walk back to the classroom. The child was reportedly kicking, screaming, and crying during the incident.
In response to the charges, a source with ties to the facility, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed that Brown’s arrest did not come as a surprise.
“Justice has been served for the kids' behalf. I don't think that she should be around kids. She shouldn't have been allowed as long as she was,” they said.
The board president of Elizabeth's Early Learning Center sent a letter to parents following the news of the arrest, assuring them that steps are being taken to prevent any similar incidents in the future.
The daycare has announced plans to install cameras in all classrooms, retrain staff on proper protocols, and empower staff members to intervene if they witness any inappropriate behavior.
At this time, Brown remains in custody at the Blue Ridge Regional Jail without bond. She is scheduled to appear in court in April to face the charges.
The investigation continues, and authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.
Parents of children at the daycare are encouraged to contact the center directly with any concerns or questions.
The case has sparked an outcry in the community, raising questions about the safety measures in place at local daycare centers.
Elizabeth's Early Learning Center has assured families that significant changes will be implemented to prevent future incidents and to ensure a safe environment for children.