A Georgia woman, Aaniyah Brown, has been arrested and charged with first-degree cruelty to children after an alleged incident at an autism therapy center where she was caught on security footage stepping on a 5-year-old child while he was on the floor. The child was reportedly attempting to get up when Brown allegedly used her foot to hold him down.
Details of the Incident
On April 28, 2026, Brown, an employee at Circle City ABA in Augusta, Georgia, was reportedly caught on the center’s security cameras pushing her foot into the back and face of a 5-year-old boy with autism. The boy, who was on the floor, was attempting to stand when Brown allegedly stepped on him, holding him down.
The incident came to light when a complainant notified local authorities, who were then shown the disturbing footage from the therapy center. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office arrested Brown, and she was booked into the Richmond County jail. According to reports, Brown claimed she was using her foot to keep the child away from her, asserting that she was trying to prevent him from causing harm.
Reaction from the Therapy Center
Circle City ABA, where the incident took place, is an autism therapy center that provides ABA therapy for children with autism, aiming to assist with their communication, social, and daily living skills.
The center’s website emphasizes that they employ experienced therapists who build close connections with the children they serve. However, as of now, Brown’s employment status at the center is unclear, as officials did not respond to media inquiries.
The center’s website describes its facilities as being equipped with clean toys, swings, and other tools designed for therapy. They also state that if a therapist is absent, another team member familiar with the child will step in, ensuring consistency for the children.
Legal Developments and Court Proceedings
Aaniyah Brown has been released on a $22,000 bond and is awaiting her next court date. She faces serious charges of cruelty to children and is under investigation for the actions caught on video.
