Texas Family Seeks Justice After Toddler Abused on Live Surveillance at Austin Daycare: The Idaho Statesman Reports

Parents Witness Shocking Abuse on Daycare's Live Feed

BOISE, Idaho - In a heart-wrenching incident that has shocked the community, The Button Law Firm has filed a lawsuit against Children’s Courtyard daycare in Austin, Texas. The case, which has garnered significant attention, was recently featured in The Idaho Statesman, detailing the harrowing experience of a 2-year-old boy who was abused by a daycare worker.

On July 27, 2023, a father, while at work, decided to check on his son through the live video surveillance provided by the daycare. What he saw next was a parent's worst nightmare. The live feed showed a daycare worker smothering his son with a blanket in an attempt to keep him quiet during nap time. The worker later hit the toddler when he did not fall asleep, according to the article.

Daycare's Negligent Response to Reported Abuse

Rushing to the daycare, the father confronted the staff about the incident. However, instead of taking immediate action, the daycare did not report the abuse to state officials and law enforcement. It was the parent who had to make the report. This gross negligence and lack of accountability prompted the child’s mother to seek damages for the physical and emotional injuries her son suffered.

Legal Action Taken by The Button Law Firm

In the article, Russell Button, the daycare and childcare injury lawyer representing the family, stated, “Abuse accusations at any daycare center should be taken seriously, and centers should employ caregivers who comply with the clear procedures required by law to protect children under their watch.

Investigation Uncovers Multiple Violations at Children’s Courtyard

The details of the incident are deeply disturbing. According to the article by The Idaho Statesman, video footage from the daycare showed the worker placing a blanket over the child’s entire body. When the toddler struggled to fall asleep, the caregiver removed the blanket and began hitting the boy in the face and head. The child, trying to shield himself with his hands, was rocked back and forth with each blow. The daycare's response was shockingly inadequate, as the worker was initially only suspended for one day.

Following the report to authorities, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission Child-Care Licensing Division and the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services conducted an investigation. They cited the daycare for five violations, including abuse of the child, using prohibited punishment, and failing to report the abuse. The investigation revealed that the daycare allowed the caregiver to remain around children for three hours after learning of the abuse, further highlighting their negligence.

This incident is not an isolated case for Children’s Courtyard. According to state records, the daycare has been cited 70 times since 2019 for various violations. This alarming history underscores a pattern of negligence and failure to ensure the safety and well-being of the children in their care.

Seeking Justice and Accountability

The Button Law Firm is committed to holding Children’s Courtyard accountable for their actions. Russell Button emphasized, “Our goal is to seek justice for the child and his family and to ensure that no other child has to endure such horrific treatment. Daycares must be held to the highest standards of care and safety.”

Raising Awareness and Advocating for Reform

The family’s pursuit of justice is for their son, and it raises awareness about the importance of stringent regulations and accountability in daycare centers. The Idaho Statesman’s feature on this lawsuit has brought further attention to the case, highlighting the urgent need for reform and better oversight in the childcare industry.

The Button Law Firm's Commitment to Child Safety

At The Button Law Firm, we stand with families to fight against negligence and abuse in daycare centers. Our team of daycare and childcare injury lawyers is dedicated to advocating for children's rights and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.

If your child has been injured due to daycare negligence, The Button Law Firm is here to provide the guidance and support you need. Our experienced team of daycare injury attorneys is committed to fighting for justice for families affected by daycare negligence.

For a free and confidential case evaluation, call us at 214-699-4409, chat with us, or fill out our contact form. Let us help you navigate this challenging time and ensure your family’s rights are protected.