A Florida daycare worker has been arrested after allegedly abusing a 3-month-old boy by repeatedly slamming him in his crib, authorities said. The shocking incident occurred after the worker received a text message that upset her.
Daycare Worker Arrested for Abusing Infant
LaKayla E. Hamilton, 26, faces two counts of aggravated child ab*se. The Bay County Sheriff’s Office said the infant suffered skull fractures, broken ribs, a broken leg, and extensive bruising on his head and face.
The incident took place at Quality Learning Child Care Center, Inc. in Panama City, Florida. Authorities were alerted after nurses at a local hospital noticed signs of ab*se. The child’s parents reported that he was fine when they dropped him off at the daycare that morning.
Hamilton’s Confession
Investigators spoke with Hamilton, who was responsible for the child’s care. She initially claimed she had no idea how the injuries occurred, saying the child seemed fine except for not eating during the day.
In a later interview, Hamilton said she tripped on a toy while picking up the baby, causing him to fall. However, investigators noted the severity of the injuries did not match her explanation.
Hamilton eventually admitted to the ab*se. She told detectives that she had been in a “bad mood” that morning because of personal issues and a text message that upset her.
Using a doll, Hamilton reenacted the ab*se, showing how she repeatedly slammed the baby in his crib and against a changing table, and hit him in the head with toys. Investigators noted:
- She slammed the infant into the crib 5–10 times
- She slammed him into the changing table 5–10 times
- She struck him in the head with toys multiple times
Hamilton admitted to abusing the child later in the day as well.
Infant’s Condition
Authorities said the child’s mother likely saved his life by seeking immediate medical attention. The infant is now in stable condition.
Arrest and Court Date
Hamilton was taken into custody at the Bay County Jail on a $2 million bond. She reportedly tried to bring a marijuana vape into the jail. Her next court appearance is scheduled for June 15.
