Today is the 27th of February, 2026, and we bring you an alarming story from Marion County, Florida. Surveillance videos released by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office have unveiled disturbing incidents involving a daycare worker, Laura Flores, age 31, who was employed at Bright Beginnings Learning Center in Summerfield. The footage has raised serious concerns about the safety of children in daycare settings.
Flores was arrested after deputies responded to the learning center on February 13, following reports of an injury to a child. After reviewing the surveillance footage, they discovered multiple instances of abuse, including Flores forcefully picking up a child and throwing them onto a mat, striking a child on the back of the head, and even slapping a swaddled child across the face. The shocking nature of these incidents has left the community in disbelief.
Community Reaction and Daycare Response
The allegations against Flores have sparked outrage among local residents, who are questioning the hiring processes at Bright Beginnings Learning Center. In light of the accusations, the daycare has issued a statement confirming that Flores is no longer employed there and that they have cooperated fully with the Department of Children and Families as well as the sheriff’s office during the investigation. They emphasized that the safety and wellbeing of the children is their highest priority, though they are limited in what they can disclose due to privacy laws.
Flores faces three counts of child abuse and was taken to Marion County jail. She has since been released after posting a $15,000 bond. Her arraignment is scheduled for March 31, and deputies are urging anyone with additional information to come forward as the investigation continues.
Safety in Daycare: A Growing Concern
Incidents like this highlight an ongoing concern regarding child safety in daycare environments across the country. Parents trust these institutions to care for their little ones during crucial developmental years, and stories of abuse can shake that trust to its core. It’s vital for parents to be vigilant and informed about the conditions and personnel at their children’s daycare facilities.
As the community processes this shocking news, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of all children. For further details about the situation, you can read the full report from Click Orlando here and learn more from WCJB here.