A daycare worker in Indiana is facing serious charges after admitting to slapping a child while on duty. Joyce Perkins, 31, has been formally charged with battery on a person under 14 years old following an incident that occurred in November 2024 at Kiddie Academy in Greenwood, Indiana, according to court documents cited by WRTV, Fox 59, and WTHR. WRTV was the first to report the troubling news.
Authorities responded to reports of the incident and reviewed surveillance footage that purportedly shows Perkins hitting a 2-year-old child. During the investigation, Perkins allegedly confessed to the officers, stating, “I had to smack him because he spit all in my face.” She further claimed that her actions were not intended to harm the child, noting, “He didn’t cry or nothing.”
Following the incident, Kiddie Academy took swift action by terminating Perkins’ employment. Aaron Pankratz, the daycare center’s director, confirmed the firing to WRTV. “The state licensing authority conducted a thorough investigation and confirmed that we responded appropriately and took every possible measure within our control to address the situation,” the daycare center stated in a released statement.
The daycare center emphasized their commitment to maintaining a safe and nurturing environment for all children under their care. They assured the public that they adhered to all regulatory standards and took the incident seriously, implementing necessary measures to prevent any future occurrences.
As of now, it remains unclear whether Perkins has entered a plea or has secured legal representation to speak on her behalf. The Johnson County Prosecutor’s office has not yet provided a comment on the case, as PEOPLE reached out for additional information but did not receive a response in time for publication.
The incident has raised concerns among parents and the community regarding the safety and supervision practices within daycare facilities. Authorities are urging anyone with further information about the case to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation.
Battery charges against a daycare worker are severe, reflecting the gravity of the allegations and the importance of protecting young children in care settings. If convicted, Perkins could face significant jail time and other legal repercussions, underscoring the stringent measures in place to address abuse within childcare environments.
Kiddie Academy’s proactive response to the incident serves as a reminder of the critical role that daycare centers play in ensuring the well-being and safety of children. The center’s dedication to a thorough investigation and immediate action highlights their responsibility to uphold high standards of care and accountability.
As the legal process unfolds, the community remains vigilant, emphasizing the need for robust safeguards and transparent practices in all childcare institutions. The case of Joyce Perkins underscores the ongoing challenges faced by daycare providers in balancing discipline with compassionate care, and the paramount importance of maintaining trust between caregivers and the families they serve.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that justice is served and that measures are reinforced to protect vulnerable children from any form of abuse or mistreatment in the future.