An Evansville, Indiana daycare employee is facing serious charges after investigators say she repeatedly shut a 5-year-old child inside a closet, struck them with a broom, and left them without food or a nap-time blanket — all while she slipped away to buy alcohol during work hours.
Tashshavviyon Stinson, 29, has worked at Kindergate Developmental Child Care Center’s downtown Evansville location for roughly a decade. Authorities allege that during May, she isolated the child in a closet on multiple occasions and left the building unattended to purchase liquor, according to police.
The case came to light after the child described being denied meals and a blanket during rest time, and disclosed being locked away and hit with a broom. Evansville Police Sergeant Anthony Aussieker said the allegations were deeply disturbing, noting that surveillance footage reportedly backs up the child’s account, showing Stinson placing the youngster in the closet after the alleged beating.
Investigators say Stinson admitted to a history of alcohol-related struggles, telling officers she had consumed drinks before starting her shift on more than one occasion. She reportedly also told police she has dealt with depression and thoughts of suicide.
A second staff member, 47-year-old Andrea Williamson, has been charged with neglect of a dependent for allegedly failing to report the abuse despite Indiana law requiring caregivers to immediately notify authorities of suspected mistreatment. Officials stressed that hesitation is not an option under mandated-reporting rules — anyone with concerns is expected to contact emergency services right away.
Stinson now faces charges including battery against a child under 14, along with neglect, and is being held on a $25,000 bond. Williamson has since been released on bond.
The investigation remains active as authorities continue reviewing the daycare’s internal procedures and staff conduct.