A shocking child abuse case has come to light in Illinois after two day care workers were arrested for allegedly hurting several young children under their care.
The disturbing acts were reportedly captured on surveillance cameras, leading to a police investigation and criminal charges. The incident has left parents deeply upset and raised serious concerns about child safety in day care centres.
Two Day Care Workers Arrested in Illinois
Authorities in Des Plaines, Illinois, arrested 36-year-old Jessica Murillo and 23-year-old Izabella Thompson this week in connection with alleged child abuse at a local day care.
According to the Des Plaines Police Department, the two women are accused of physically abusing multiple children between early and mid-November 2025.
Murillo is facing serious charges, including:
- Three felony counts of aggravated battery
- Twelve misdemeanor counts of battery
Thompson has been charged with four misdemeanor counts of battery for allegedly making insulting or provoking physical contact.
Where the Alleged Abuse Happened
The two women were employees at A Mother’s Touch Learning Academy, located on the 1600 block of Rand Road in Des Plaines. The city is about 15 miles northwest of Chicago.
Police said the alleged incidents took place between November 3 and November 19, 2025.
How the Investigation Began
The case started when a parent complained to the day care directors about an incident in which a child care provider allegedly sprayed a child in the face with water.
After receiving the complaint, the day care directors immediately began an internal investigation. They reviewed surveillance footage and contacted the state’s Department of Child and Family Services.
As the review continued, officials reportedly found additional video evidence showing Murillo and Thompson allegedly hitting and mistreating multiple children. Both employees were suspended right away.
On November 24, 2025, the directors, along with one child’s parent, filed a formal police report.
Details of the Allegations
Police claim that a total of seven boys between the ages of 4 and 5 were affected.
According to authorities, the alleged actions included:
- Striking a child in the face with a notebook
- Smacking children in the face with an open hand
- Dragging a 4-year-old boy across the floor by his foot, causing his head to hit the ground
While the behaviour described is serious and disturbing, police said none of the children suffered severe injuries or required medical treatment.
Officials did not provide detailed information about the specific actions Thompson is accused of, but she also faces charges related to physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature.
Court Appearances Scheduled
Murillo is scheduled to appear in court at the Second District Municipal Court in Skokie. Thompson is expected to appear in court on March 30.
The legal process is now underway, and both women will have the opportunity to respond to the charges in court.
Police Chief Responds
Des Plaines Police Chief David Anderson expressed sympathy for the families affected by the case. He described the situation as a painful breach of trust.
He also thanked the day care directors and staff for acting quickly, reporting the matter to authorities, and cooperating fully with investigators.
Case Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Accused | Jessica Murillo (36), Izabella Thompson (23) |
| Location | Des Plaines, Illinois |
| Day Care | A Mother’s Touch Learning Academy |
| Alleged Victims | 7 boys (ages 4–5) |
| Charges (Murillo) | 3 felony aggravated battery, 12 misdemeanor battery |
| Charges (Thompson) | 4 misdemeanor battery |
| Incident Dates | November 3–19, 2025 |
