West Melbourne, Florida — A Florida daycare worker is facing numerous criminal charges after authorities say surveillance footage captured her repeatedly striking toddlers inside a childcare classroom over the course of several days.
The allegations emerged after a parent raised concerns about their child, prompting an internal review that ultimately led to a police investigation.
Parent Complaint Sparks Investigation
According to authorities, the case began when a parent reported that their child had been flicked in the face by a teacher at Mustard Seed Kids daycare in West Melbourne.
The complaint prompted daycare director Kaitlin Fletcher to review surveillance footage from the classroom where the employee worked.
Fletcher reportedly examined seven days of video recordings spanning from May 19 through May 26.
What she allegedly discovered led her to immediately contact law enforcement.
According to a probable cause affidavit reviewed by PEOPLE, Fletcher informed officers that a teacher had been physically striking several children under her care.
Surveillance Footage Allegedly Captured Multiple Incidents
Police identified the employee as Latasha Mullings, 41, who now faces 11 counts of battery and one count of assault, according to court records.
Investigators allege that surveillance footage showed Mullings striking five different children between the ages of 2 and 4 years old on 11 separate occasions.
According to the affidavit, some of the alleged incidents involved objects being used against the children.
Authorities claim that two students were seen being struck in the head with a metal stapler. Police also allege Mullings threw a shoe at one child but missed.
Additional Allegations Detailed in Affidavit
Investigators say the footage revealed several other disturbing incidents involving young students.
According to the affidavit, one child was allegedly slapped in the face three times.
Another student was reportedly struck in the head with a bucket and later hit across the face with a stuffed animal.
Authorities further allege that another child was hit in the hand with a shoe.
The allegations have shocked many parents and community members due to the age of the children involved and the nature of the reported conduct.
Teacher Fired After Confrontation
After reviewing the footage, Fletcher reportedly confronted Mullings regarding the allegations on May 26.
According to the affidavit, Mullings responded with a surprising statement.
“My babies are gonna miss me,” she allegedly exclaimed when confronted by the daycare director.
Following the conversation, Mullings was terminated from her position at the daycare center.
Authorities were subsequently notified, leading to criminal charges.
Court Proceedings Still Pending
Court records show Mullings was scheduled to appear in court on May 29, but the hearing was later cancelled.
Officials confirmed she posted bond prior to the scheduled appearance.
At this time, it remains unclear when she will next appear before a judge.
Court records also do not indicate whether she has entered a plea or retained an attorney to speak on her behalf.
The case remains active as prosecutors and investigators continue reviewing evidence related to the allegations.
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