The daycare program at First Methodist Church in Hopkinsville has been closed after a former worker was arrested Wednesday for alleged child abuse.
Informed sources tell the News Edge parents were notified Thursday that the daycare program would be closing until further notice. Parents were reportedly told during a meeting Monday night at the church that a new director had been hired and the program would resume operation Tuesday. No word has been released by the church about the daycare’s closure, how long it will be closed, why it was closed and if there are plans to reopen the daycare in the future.
The action came after the Hopkinsville Police Department arrested former daycare worker 23-year-old Allison Simpson Wednesday and charged her with Wanton Endangerment first degree and two counts of Criminal Abuse second degree involving a child under the age of twelve. Simpson was lodged in Christian County Jail under a $10,000 bond.
According to the arrest warrant filed by Hopkinsville Police Simpson allegedly subjected a 10-month old baby and an 8-month-old baby to cruel care and confinement on January 10 of this year. The incident allegedly placed both babies in substantial danger of serious physical injury. The warrant indicates there is video of the alleged incidents.
Simpson formerly worked in the baby room at First United Methodist Church. All the employees in the baby room were reportedly let go Friday, January 24, with Hopkinsville Police Detectives beginning their investigation. First Methodist Pastor Paige Williams addressed the situation during Sunday’s worship service at the church.
The News Edge contacted church Pastor Paige Williams by email for a statement concerning the situation, but has received no response.
