Two daycare workers in Blaine, Minnesota, have been arrested and charged with multiple counts of child abuse after shocking surveillance footage revealed their alleged mistreatment of infants at Small World Daycare Center. Chloe Kaye Johnson, 24, and Elizabeth Augusta Wiemerslage, 22, face felony charges of malicious punishment of a child under four and third-degree assault, along with gross misdemeanor charges.
The investigation began on July 16 when parents noticed bruises on their infant after pickup. Initial explanations from the daycare suggested accidental causes, but surveillance video revealed a disturbing pattern of abuse. The footage allegedly shows Johnson violently flipping a baby and Wiemerslage slamming infants onto surfaces, among other abusive acts.
Blaine Police Department described the case as “exceptionally shocking,” emphasizing the betrayal of trust placed in daycare centers. Both women were arrested last Thursday and released on $10,000 bond, with court dates set for August and September.
The daycare center is cooperating with the investigation and has fired both employees. Parents like Cody Pech, whose 5-month-old son allegedly suffered a tibia fracture, expressed a mix of sadness and anger, calling the actions “sick and bizarre” and a “complete betrayal.”
This case has raised serious concerns about child safety in daycare settings and the importance of thorough background checks and surveillance in childcare facilities. As the legal process unfolds, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of young children and the critical need for vigilance in their care.
