Two childcare workers who were caught on Snapchat video taunting and berating an 8-year-old autistic boy have turned themselves in, according to multiple media reports.
On Thursday, Winter Haven police issued a warrant for the arrest of the two Florida women, who were seen grabbing the boy by his arms and throwing shoes and a backpack at him. The three-minute Snapchat video shows the child crying and hiding under a table while 26-year-old Kaderrica Smith and 19-year-old Alexus Henderson continue to provoke him.
Both women were employees at Our Children’s Academy in Winter Haven. The child, who did not require medical attention after the incident, was diagnosed with autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and “severe outbursts,” according to a news release.
Smith and Henderson were immediately fired following the incident. A hold has been placed on their certifications so they can’t be re-employed by any place working with kids as the investigation continues.
The video, which was released on Sept.1, shows one of the workers doing a “leg sweep” on the boy, causing him to fall flat on his back. In a Sept. 15 interview with the Department of Children and Families Child Protection Team, both workers said they believed they were acting appropriately and did not think they were doing anything wrong.
Smith was charged with child abuse and battery and Henderson was charged with child neglect. Police were unable to find the women after it was determined they committed criminal acts, prompting the release of the arrest warrants.
However, according to WFLA, both women turned themselves in on Friday and were immediately booked into Polk County Jail.
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Henderson has reportedly bonded out. Smith is currently being held without bond and will have her first court appearance Sept. 22.
The Snapchat video can be viewed here.
