Natick, MA – A trusted Massachusetts day care owner has admitted to assaulting two young children in her care last year, including a 17-month-old girl who was yanked around during nap and art activities, and another child who was slammed onto a cot and restrained.
Details of the Assaults
Sandra Downer, 58, of Natick, pleaded guilty last Thursday to two counts of assault and battery related to incidents that took place at her facility, Lad ‘n Lassie Nursery & Preschool, in October of last year, according to WCVB.
In one disturbing incident captured on video, Downer can be seen forcibly pulling a 17-month-old girl by the arm, lifting her approximately 2–3 feet off the ground and placing her into a seat while other children painted nearby.
During a separate episode, also recorded on camera, Downer slammed the toddler’s sister onto a cot and bound her to it, police and prosecutors reported.
Reactions from Parents and Community
The children’s mother, who requested anonymity, said the assaults were heartbreaking:
“I thought this was definitely abuse, and it broke my heart, seeing both of my girls be [assaulted] by someone we trusted.”
Another parent expressed concern about overall safety at the facility:
“Every parent just wonders ‘are their kids safe when they’re not there?’ It just shatters your trust in people.”
Witness Accounts and Prior Behavior
At least one witness told police that Downer had previously been rough with children during other alleged incidents. When questioned, she admitted to committing the assaults and apologized to the children.
Legal Outcome and Penalties
Downer has surrendered her childcare provider license and accepted responsibility in court, acknowledging she exercised poor judgment. Under her plea deal, she will:
- Be on probation for 18 months
- Complete anger management classes
- Undergo a mental health evaluation
Safety Takeaways for Parents
Authorities urge parents to remain vigilant when choosing childcare providers, stressing the importance of:
- Checking facility licensing and inspection history
- Observing children’s behavior for signs of distress
- Ensuring facilities adhere to proper safety and supervision standards
Conclusion
The Natick community has been shaken by these incidents, highlighting the critical need for transparency and accountability in childcare settings. Families are reminded to monitor updates on child safety regulations and report any concerns immediately.
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