Spring Hill, FL – A Florida woman has been arrested after allegedly abusing an 11-year-old child with disabilities at a day care facility in Hernando County. Kaitlyn Pitzer, 36, is facing one count of child abuse following an investigation into incidents that occurred at the Tender Care PPEC (Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care) facility in Spring Hill, a facility that provides care for children with medically complex conditions.
Alleged Abuse at the Day Care Facility
The incident reportedly occurred on October 9, when deputies responded to a report of potential abuse involving Pitzer, who had recently been terminated from her position at the facility. Law enforcement said the administration had concerns that Pitzer had mistreated a child while employed at the center.
According to a press release from the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office, surveillance footage captured multiple instances of alleged mistreatment. The footage initially shows Pitzer and another aide attempting to place a bandage on the child’s forehead, with the child seated on the floor. As the child leaned forward, Pitzer allegedly forcefully pushed on the child’s forehead, causing the child’s body to jerk backward “in a manner that appeared violent and excessive.”
The alleged abuse escalated when Pitzer reportedly taunted the child with a piece of cake. When the child reached for some icing, Pitzer smeared the icing across the child’s face, rubbed cake from the floor onto the child’s forehead, and forcefully wiped it off using a wet paper towel, causing visible distress. Investigators reported that the child attempted to move away multiple times but Pitzer continued the aggressive behavior, demonstrating repeated disregard for the child’s discomfort.
Application of Hand Sanitizer to Open Wounds
Minutes later, surveillance footage shows the child standing near a trash can filled with discarded cake. Pitzer allegedly grabbed the child and applied hand sanitizer directly to open wounds on the child’s arms, causing the child to run away in distress. Law enforcement emphasized that the child’s pre-existing medical conditions and documented disabilities made them particularly vulnerable to injury and pain.
The child’s parents reportedly confirmed the severity of the incident. They expressed concern that the force used to shove the child backward could have caused serious injury, noting that previously healing scabbed injuries began bleeding again after the incident.
Admission and Frustration
During interviews with investigators, Pitzer acknowledged her behavior and admitted it was inappropriate. She reportedly said she was frustrated on the day of the incident and knew that applying hand sanitizer to the child’s open wounds would cause pain but “did not care at the time.” Pitzer also admitted to smearing cake on the child’s face and stated she thought it was “funny” in the moment.
Arrest and Detention
Pitzer is currently detained at the Hernando County Jail on a $5,000 bond. At present, the public court system in Hernando County does not show updated charges against her. Law enforcement continues to investigate the matter, and the public is urged to stay informed as the case develops.
Community Reaction and Awareness
The allegations have sparked concern among parents and community members about the safety and oversight of day care facilities, particularly those serving children with disabilities. Advocates stress the importance of vigilant supervision, staff training, and transparent reporting protocols to protect vulnerable children.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the heightened vulnerability of children with medical conditions and the critical role caregivers play in ensuring safe, compassionate care. Authorities are expected to continue reviewing evidence, including surveillance footage and staff interviews, to determine the full scope of Pitzer’s alleged misconduct.
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