Aaniyah Brown (Richmond County Sheriff’s Office).
In a disturbing incident at an autism therapy center in Georgia, a woman has been accused of mistreating a 5-year-old boy. According to local authorities, a video allegedly shows the woman pressing her foot into the child’s back while he was on the floor, effectively holding him down.
Aaniyah Brown, an employee of Circle City ABA, has been charged with first-degree cruelty to children in connection with the incident, which took place on April 28. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is handling the case.
Details from an arrest warrant, as reported by CBS affiliate WRDW, reveal that security footage from the center captured Brown stepping on the young boy. The video also allegedly shows her pushing her foot into his face and back as he struggled to stand up.
A witness reportedly alerted the authorities, prompting them to visit the ABA center on that Tuesday. The officers were subsequently shown the incriminating footage.
In her defense, Brown stated to police that she was attempting to keep the child from approaching and allegedly harming her, according to reports by WRDW and WAGT. Despite her claims, Brown was arrested and taken to the Richmond County jail.
The Circle City ABA website describes its mission as fostering a playful and educational environment for children. “Our Augusta Autism therapy team encourages your child to play and learn while we assist them in making progress,” the website notes, highlighting their services, which include various therapy settings designed to be inviting and safe.
The website says Circle City ABA “employs experienced therapists who foster close connections with the children they serve, allowing them to help the kids reach their goals.” Brown’s job status with the Augusta center was unclear Monday. Center officials did not respond to Law&Crime’s requests for comment.
“With our professional staff, top-tier equipment, and modern facilities, we can help improve your child’s communication, daily living, and social skills, truly benefiting their lives,” the website adds. “Each child attending our Augusta autism therapy center full time will have a morning and afternoon therapist. If a therapist is absent, another team member familiar with the child will step in.”
Brown was released on a $22,000 bond and is awaiting her next court date.
