TAMPA, Fla. — A Tampa daycare worker has been arrested after he was accused of abusing a toddler in a bathroom at Panda Hugs Academy. The incident occurred on December 30, 2024, and was reported to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.
Denario Powell, 26, was arrested on January 13, 2025, after surveillance footage from the daycare showed him removing a three-year-old boy from his seat and leading him into a bathroom. Witnesses later reported hearing the child crying, loud banging noises, and Powell shouting during the incident.
After the child exited the bathroom, deputies say he approached a witness, touched his neck, and pointed toward Powell. Upon further examination, it was determined that the child had sustained multiple lacerations and abrasions to his face and neck.
Powell was charged with one count of child abuse. Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister condemned Powell’s actions, stating that no child should be harmed by someone entrusted with their care, and pledged that justice would be served.
Powell remains in custody, facing charges in connection with this disturbing case.