Panama City, Florida — A Florida daycare worker is facing serious criminal charges after police say she violently abused a 3-month-old infant in her care, leaving the child with life-threatening injuries after allegedly taking out her anger over personal problems on the baby.
Infant Rushed to Hospital With Severe Injuries
The shocking case came to light on Wednesday, May 13, when authorities responded to a report from HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospital in Panama City.
Medical staff alerted law enforcement after the infant arrived with devastating injuries, including a fractured skull, fractured leg, fractured ribs, and a brain bleed, according to the Bay County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigators quickly determined that the injuries allegedly occurred earlier that same day while the child was at daycare under the supervision of employee LaKayla E. Hamilton.
Officials described the injuries as catastrophic and said the child may not have survived without immediate medical attention from the parents.
Daycare Worker Initially Denied Knowing What Happened
According to investigators, Hamilton first claimed she had no idea how the infant became injured.
However, during a second interview with detectives, police say she eventually confessed to assaulting the baby in a violent outburst.
“Hamilton confessed that after arriving at work already upset by personal issues and receiving an additional text message that intensified her anger, she directed that rage toward the infant,” authorities said in a statement.
The alleged confession has horrified the local community and raised concerns about child safety inside daycare facilities.
Police Say Infant Was Slammed Into Crib and Changing Table
Investigators say Hamilton admitted to repeatedly attacking the infant in an attempt to stop him from crying.
According to the sheriff’s office, she allegedly slammed the baby into a crib and changing table multiple times. Authorities also claim she squeezed, shook, and struck the child in the head with toys during the abuse.
Police further revealed that the abuse allegedly happened more than once on the same day.
“She was unable to provide an exact number of times she assaulted the child due to the level of rage she described experiencing,” the Bay County Sheriff’s Office said.
Authorities stated that a second incident later that day involved the infant allegedly being abused again “in the same manner.”
Child Could Have Died From Injuries, Investigators Say
Law enforcement officials said the injuries inflicted on the infant were so severe that the child could have died if medical care had been delayed.
Investigators credited the parents’ quick actions for potentially saving the baby’s life.
“The child could have died from the catastrophic injuries if not for the swift action of the child’s parents in seeking immediate medical treatment,” investigators said.
Blood-Soaked Man Shocks Walgreens Workers After Allegedly Murdering Mom and Aunt
The current condition of the infant has not been publicly released.
Suspect Facing Multiple Charges
Hamilton was arrested and booked into the Bay County Jail on Thursday, May 14. She now faces two counts of aggravated child abuse.
According to public records, her bond was set at $210,000.
Authorities confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing, and additional details may emerge as detectives continue examining the case.
The disturbing allegations have sparked outrage online, with many calling for stricter oversight and accountability in childcare settings.
If you suspect child abuse, authorities urge people to contact the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline for confidential support and reporting assistance.
What are your thoughts on this disturbing daycare abuse case? Share your opinions respectfully in the comments below.
