Parents and neighbors expressed shock and outrage at a suburban day care center Monday where police say three employees were giving children sleep aids prior to nap time. Trina Orlando reports.
Parents and neighbors expressed shock and outrage at a suburban day care center Monday where police say three employees were giving children sleep aids prior to nap time.
Gisela Reyes said her 2-year-old daughter has attended Kiddie Junction Educational Institute in Des Plaines for about year. Reyes was shocked to learned about the allegations.
"It's unexpected--I never thought that would happen," she said. "It's very heartbreaking for me because it's something I never would have expected."
Des Plaines police say they got an anonymous tip last week that lead them to the day care.
When they arrived--they learned that three teachers were believed to have been giving melatonin gummies to 2 and 3-year-old children.
Kristen Lauletta, 32, Ashley Helfenbein, 25, And 19-year-old Jessica Heyse are charged with two counts each of battery and endangering the life of a child.
NBC 5 visited the homes of Lauletta and Helfenbein Monday but no one answered the door.
Helfenbein's attorney spoke with NBC 5 over the phone.
“At this point these are simply allegations being brought against my client and the state needs to prove any and all charges beyond a reasonable doubt,” he said.
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For now--some parents are keeping an open mind.
The director of the day care did not return calls or emails on Monday requesting comment.
Police say more charges are likely.
