Daycare Teacher Arrested
A daycare teacher in Miami-Dade County has been arrested after authorities say she physically abused a 2-year-old child inside a classroom at a Lincoln-Martí childcare center.
According to investigators, 53-year-old Beatriz Gomez Hurtado is charged with child abuse following an incident that allegedly occurred at the daycare’s Homestead location. Police say surveillance video captured the teacher grabbing and shaking the toddler, prompting an immediate investigation by law enforcement and state child welfare officials.
Surveillance Footage Allegedly Captured Incident
The investigation began after daycare administrators reviewed classroom surveillance footage showing the interaction between Gomez Hurtado and the child.
According to the arrest report, the toddler was having a tantrum when the teacher allegedly grabbed him by one wrist and lifted him off the ground. Investigators say she then placed her hands around the child’s neck and face before shaking him several times.
Authorities said the child suffered visible bruising to his left cheek and a mark on the right side of his neck. The injuries were documented as part of the investigation.
Daycare Took Immediate Action
Lincoln-Martí Community Agency said it acted quickly after reviewing the surveillance video.
The organization said Gomez Hurtado was immediately removed from the classroom and terminated from her position. Administrators also reported the incident to the Florida Abuse Hotline, notified the child’s family, and contacted law enforcement.
The childcare provider said it is cooperating fully with investigators and emphasized that its internal monitoring procedures helped identify the alleged abuse promptly.
Judge Sets Bond
Following her arrest, Gomez Hurtado appeared before a Miami-Dade judge, who found probable cause for the child abuse charge.
The judge set her bond at $5,000 and ordered that she have no contact with the child or the daycare facility while the criminal case is pending.
Community Concerns Grow
The arrest has sparked concern among parents who entrust childcare providers with the safety of their children. The case also places renewed attention on the importance of surveillance cameras and mandatory reporting procedures in licensed childcare facilities.
Advocates say classroom cameras can play a critical role in protecting children by providing objective evidence when allegations of abuse arise.
Investigation Remains Active
Miami-Dade police continue to investigate the incident as prosecutors move forward with the child abuse case.
As with all criminal cases, Gomez Hurtado is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court. If convicted, she could face penalties under Florida’s child abuse laws.
