Lindale, TX – A 45-year-old day care worker in Lindale, Texas, has pleaded guilty to physically abusing multiple toddlers more than 130 times over several months, according to court records. Sentencing is scheduled for November 12, 2025.
Guilty Plea and Charges
Catherine Guziejka pleaded guilty on Tuesday to six counts of injury to a child with the intent to cause bodily injury. Her attorneys are requesting a sentence of 10 years per count, to be served concurrently.
Timeline of Abuse at Punkin’ Doodles Day Care
Investigators say the abuse occurred between July and October 2024 at Punkin’ Doodles Day Care, located about 200 miles north of Houston. The case came to light in October 2024 when an employee reviewing security camera footage allegedly saw Guziejka kick a 2-year-old boy in the lower back while he was on the floor.
The employee immediately notified the child’s father on October 23, 2024, who contacted the Smith County Sheriff’s Office. Investigators then reviewed all footage and identified 134 separate incidents of physical assault involving six different 2-year-olds.
Details of Abusive Behavior
According to investigators:
- Guziejka would approach children while they were watching television and kick them in the lower back with her right foot.
- She was observed standing on toddlers’ hands, aggressively moving them in their sleep, and dragging them by the arm to changing tables.
- During diaper changes, she would force children to stare at the wall while holding their heads down.
The former day care owner, Melanie Dawn Law, confirmed to police that Guziejka had been abusing children since July 2024, and immediately terminated her employment after reviewing the footage.
Aftermath and Facility Changes
Law turned over all footage to law enforcement and sold the day care facility. The location is expected to reopen in December under new ownership and a new name.
Smith County Sheriff Larry Smith noted that, despite the repeated abuse, the injuries sustained by the children were minor to medium bruising, with no serious injuries reported.
Investigation and Community Response
Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of vigilance in child care facilities and the role of security cameras in protecting children. Guziejka’s guilty plea highlights the consequences of physical abuse and the need for rapid reporting and oversight in early childhood settings.
Parents and community members are encouraged to report any concerns regarding child safety at day care facilities. Share your experiences or tips for protecting children in the comments below.
