Horrifying footage has emerged from an American daycare centre showing a nursery worker violently throwing a 23-month-old toddler onto a mattress, sparking criminal charges and widespread condemnation.
The disturbing incident, captured on surveillance video at the New Horizon Academy in Minnesota, shows 26-year-old employee Tori-Lynn Sanford aggressively handling the young child during what should have been a routine naptime.
The Shocking Footage
According to police reports, the video evidence reveals Sanford picking up the distressed toddler and forcefully throwing them approximately four feet across the room onto a mattress. The child's head reportedly made contact with the wall during this violent episode.
Witnesses described the toddler as being "visibly upset" before the incident, crying and attempting to leave the nap area - behaviour that apparently triggered Sanford's disproportionate response.
Immediate Consequences
Sanford now faces serious charges of malicious punishment of a child, described as an act "that a reasonable person would believe could cause harm to a child's physical or mental health."
The New Horizon Academy has confirmed that Sanford is no longer employed at their facility, stating: "The care and safety of children is our highest priority. This individual is no longer employed at our centre."
Community Reaction
Local parents have expressed shock and concern following the incident's emergence. One parent told local media: "This is every parent's worst nightmare. You trust these facilities with your most precious possessions."
Law enforcement officials have emphasised that while the child didn't sustain visible serious injuries, the psychological impact of such treatment cannot be underestimated.
Broader Implications
This case has reignited discussions about childcare worker vetting procedures and supervision standards in early years facilities. Child protection advocates are calling for increased monitoring and better staff training to prevent similar incidents.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine if there were previous concerning incidents involving the accused worker.
