New York – A New York woman, 24-year-old L. Jakson, has been accused of vioIentIy assauIting three young children in her care while their parent, GeraIdine, was at work. The alleged abuse occurred earlier this month and was captured on home surveiIIance footage. The children, aged 2, 4, and 6, were reportedly struck multiple times with a beIt and frightened by the woman wearing a mask and a costume.
Following the discovery of the footage, the parent reported the incident to both ACS and the New York Police Department. The NYPD’s Child Abuse Squad initiated an investigation into the matter. Despite the severity of the allegations and the presence of video evidence, the 24-year-old woman, who was employed through New York City’s Administration for Children’s Services and contracted by SelfheIp Community Services, has not yet been apprehended. Law enforcement sources indicate that attempts to locate her have been unsuccessful.
The footage shows the 24-year-old woman instructing the children to bend over before striking them with a beIt. She can be heard saying to ‘guess what’s about to happen.” The children are seen attempting to shield themselves and crying during the assault.
ACS and SelfheIp have stated that the 24-year-old woman was terminated from her position following the allegations. ACS has initiated a review of the contracted provider’s procedures and is cooperating with the NYPD’s investigation. SelfheIp confirmed that the 24-year-old woman underwent standard background checks and drug testing before her employment.
The children’s parent described how the babysiter physically abused the children by striking them with clothes hangers and belts, and even threw the baby. In addition to the physical harm, the babysitter also subjected the kids to emotional and verbal mistreatment.
According to the parent, the abuse has left her children too scared to remove their clothes, leave their bedrooms, or even use the bathroom. She explained that the children are deeply traumatized and she is unsure where they have learned some of their behaviors, wondering if they might be repeating what happened to them.
In the last text message Jackson sent to Jaramillo, she expressed affection for the boys and called the situation a learning experience for everyone involved. She claimed to be their biggest advocate regarding their safety and well-being.
The NYPD continues to search for the 24-year-old woman. Anyone with information on her whereabouts is urged to contact the NYPD Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS. The case has drawn attention to the need for stricter oversight and accountability in the vetting and monitoring of childcare providers, especially those funded by city agencies.
This incident underscores the importance of vigilance and transparency in child welfare programs to ensure the safety and well-being of children in care.