A Massachusetts woman has been arrested and charged with child abuse for allegedly assaulting toddlers at a home-based daycare. Karen Rezendes, 51, is accused of multiple offenses, including striking a one-year-old with kitchen utensils and confining another child in an attic.
Police in Kingston, a town located 35 miles southeast of Boston, began investigating Oh Nana's Daycare in July after Rezendes' estranged husband reported concerns. A multi-week investigation involved witness interviews and a review of video evidence. Corroborating evidence was reportedly found during a search of Rezendes' home.
Detectives sought an arrest warrant on Thursday, and Rezendes surrendered to police on Friday after a 24-hour search. Authorities believe she may have been aware of the investigation due to security cameras at her residence. She pleaded not guilty to child abuse charges on Friday.
The alleged victims were toddlers aged between one and four years old. Other accusations include violently shoving one child to the ground and slamming another against a kitchen counter.
Neighbors expressed dismay upon hearing the allegations. "Makes me sick to my stomach," one neighbor told Fox12. "These poor babies locked in an attic. What is with these people that they think they can do this to children and that it's OK? It's not OK."
Oh Nana's Daycare has had its license revoked following the allegations. Kingston Police are urging any parents whose children attended the daycare and who suspect abuse to come forward. The department stated that they have corroborated victim statements with other evidence and anticipate further information may be uncovered as more parents speak with detectives.