Daycare Workers Charged with Battery After Allegedly Dragging a Child Across the Floor and Hitting Another in the Face with a Notebook

Two former staff members of A Mother’s Touch Learning Academy in Des Plaines, Illinois, face serious legal repercussions following allegations of child abuse. The accusations against the two women, 36-year-old Jessica Murillo and 23-year-old Izabella Thompson, came to light after a parent raised concerns about incidents that allegedly occurred in November 2025.

Des Plaines Police Department disclosed the details of the case in a press statement released on February 24, revealing that both Murillo and Thompson had been charged with multiple counts of battery. This follows an internal investigation prompted by a complaint alleging that one of the staff members had sprayed a child in the face with water.

The investigation began on November 20, when daycare officials were alerted to the complaint. A review of surveillance footage led to the suspension of both individuals as evidence surfaced suggesting abusive behaviour extending beyond the initial allegation. The daycare directors, along with one child’s parent, later reported the findings to the police on November 24.

Authorities determined that during the specified timeframe, seven boys aged four to five had been mistreated by either Murillo or Thompson. According to the police, while the nature of the alleged assaults varied, none of the children required medical attention or sustained severe injuries.

Specific instances of abuse have been outlined in the allegations. Murillo reportedly struck a child in the face with a notebook and dragged a four-year-old across the floor by his foot, causing his head to bump against the ground. She also allegedly hit another child repeatedly in the face with an open hand. Consequently, Murillo was charged with three felony counts of aggravated battery and 12 misdemeanor counts of battery. In contrast, Thompson faces four misdemeanor counts of battery.

A representative from A Mother’s Touch Learning Academy expressed the institution’s deep concern regarding the allegations. “The safety and wellbeing of the children in our care is always our top priority. We take this matter very seriously,” the spokesperson stated. They added that once the misconduct was identified, the employees were immediately dismissed and the appropriate authorities were notified to ensure compliance and thorough investigation.

Des Plaines Police Chief David Anderson remarked on the situation, describing it as a “painful breach of trust” by individuals who were responsible for the care of vulnerable children. He commended the staff at A Mother’s Touch Daycare for their prompt action in notifying authorities and cooperating with the ongoing investigation.

At the moment, it remains unclear whether Murillo or Thompson have secured legal representation as they prepare for court appearances. Murillo’s first court date is scheduled for February 25, while Thompson’s initial hearing will occur on March 30.

The case has generated significant concern among parents and local residents, who expect strict accountability when it comes to the care of young children. As the investigation progresses, the community will be watching closely to see how the legal proceedings unfold and to ensure that the safety of children remains paramount in childcare settings.

While the allegations are shocking, the responses from both the daycare management and law enforcement provide some assurance that such incidents are taken seriously and that necessary steps will be taken to prevent future occurrences.