A Texas daycare owner is facing felony charges after authorities allege she held down two toddlers and forced one to bite the other on the arm while they were playing outside. Jennifer Ann Garrett, 46, was arrested in connection with the incident at Gracious Beginnings Day Care in Hubbard, Texas, according to court records and local reporting.
Background
The incident took place at the daycare facility located in Hubbard, approximately 30 miles northeast of Waco. According to a probable cause arrest affidavit reported by local CBS affiliate KWTX, the alleged assault occurred on Aug. 26. The affidavit describes a disturbing scene on the playground where Garrett allegedly intervened in a conflict between two young children.
Police reviewed video evidence that allegedly showed Garrett deliberately placing her hand on the back of a 2-year-old girl's head and pushing it down. Simultaneously, she reportedly raised the arm of a second toddler, identified in the affidavit as Jane Doe #1. The video allegedly captured Garrett forcing the first girl to bite the second toddler on the arm, specifically between the wrist and the elbow.
The Investigation
Authorities stated that Garrett used her left hand to physically restrain Jane Doe #1's right arm, preventing the child from moving away despite the pain of being bitten. The affidavit notes that the girl who bit the other toddler appeared upset, raising both hands to the side of her own head during the incident.
After the alleged bite, Garrett reportedly forcefully maintained control over the other girl's arm and briskly walked her to the other side of the playground. It remains unclear whether the bite broke the skin. Police have not disclosed how the alleged assault came to their attention or what specific events led up to the playground incident.
The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services is reportedly conducting a separate investigation into the daycare center. Garrett was arrested and booked into the Hill County Jail, where she has since posted bond. Court records indicate she faces a third-degree felony charge of injury to a child.
Key Takeaways
- Jennifer Ann Garrett, 46, is charged with injury to a child, a third-degree felony.
- The alleged incident occurred on Aug. 26 at Gracious Beginnings Day Care in Hubbard, Texas.
- Police video allegedly shows Garrett forcing one toddler to bite another on the arm.
- Garrett reportedly restrained the victim's arm to prevent her from moving away.
- The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services is investigating the daycare.
- Garrett has posted bond and awaits further court proceedings.
What's Next
Garrett faces between two and 10 years in prison if convicted of the third-degree felony charge. Her next court date has not been listed in available records. The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services continues its inquiry into the operations and safety protocols at Gracious Beginnings Day Care. Garrett could not be immediately reached for comment.