Ocala police said several instances of physical harm to the children were reported.
OCALA, Fla. — A 33-year-old woman was arrested for allegedly abusing six infants at the day care where she worked.
Karla Penalverty-Gonzalez worked at the All Stars Learning Academy in Ocala for a year. According to the police, there were “several instances of physical harm” documented, including “rough handling, forced feeding, violent shaking, and near suffocation” concerning the infants.
In a Facebook post, investigators said there were multiple incidents from March to June involving children between four months and nine months old.
Authorities also mentioned that a video, recorded by another employee, captured the mistreatment of an infant. Initially, these incidents were brought to the attention of supervisors, but officials stated that no action was taken “in a timely manner.”
“Our hearts go out to these little babies and their families as we continue investigating to ensure justice and accountability,” the post read.
Penalverty-Gonzalez was taken into custody on Monday. Additionally, the Department of Children and Families was notified and will mandate remedial training for the daycare’s staff.
Police are asking anyone with additional information to contact them at 352-369-7000.
“These babies are too young to speak for themselves, and your voice is essential in protecting them,” officials stated.
