Suspected abuse of toddlers in Ashkelon: kindergarten teacher and aides arrested, detention extended

In depth

Police arrested a kindergarten teacher and four aides from two private daycare centers in Ashkelon on suspicion of violence against vulnerable minors aged one to three. The investigation began after a report received this week about violent conduct at the two centers, which operate under the same management.

The Ashkelon Magistrate's Court extended the detention of three of the suspects by five days. The judge described suspected systematic abuse, including shaking, hitting and throwing infants of about nine months into a crib. Two other suspects were released under restrictive conditions, and the investigation is ongoing.

An additional aide was arrested during the investigation, and the daycare director was also arrested and released under conditions. Police collected evidence that strengthened the suspicions, and in the coming days the parents of the toddlers who are suspected of having been harmed will be summoned to give complaints.