Daycare Worker in Sioux Falls Arrested After Allegedly Forcing Woodchips into Child’s Mouth
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — A 22-year-old daycare worker in Sioux Falls was arrested on Wednesday, April 16, after allegedly pushing woodchips into a 4-year-old boy’s mouth, police say.
According to the Sioux Falls Police Department, Mia Lopez was taken into custody after authorities responded to a call from a concerned parent at a daycare on the 5100 block of South Cliff Avenue.
The incident reportedly occurred when Lopez, allegedly frustrated with the child, shoved woodchips into his mouth during outdoor playtime. The child’s mother noticed dirt on his face and alerted authorities.
Police say the child was not physically injured, and Lopez was arrested on probable cause related to child mistreatment.
The investigation remains ongoing. No additional details have been released.
