New charges have been filed against Kendasja Hughley, a teacher at the Forsyth daycare, and two other employees, including director Cathy Stevick. They are accused of felony child cruelty in connection with allegations that toddlers were given Benadryl to induce sleep.
- New charges filed against daycare employees.
- Director Cathy Stevick arrested for failing to report.
- Kendasja Hughley accused of giving Benadryl.
- Daycare closed for 21 days due to safety concerns.
- Surveillance footage showed inaction by management.
- Parents reported children were sluggish and abnormal.
On March 18, 2025, in Forsyth, Georgia, the daycare’s management was arrested after failing to report suspected child abuse. The Georgia Department of Daycare and Early Learning has since closed the facility for 21 days due to concerns for children’s safety.
The allegations stem from an incident where Kendasja Hughley reportedly gave Benadryl to at least three toddlers to help them sleep. This practice is not recommended for children under six years old by the drug manufacturer. Following these events, both Hughley and another employee, Shelby Webb, were charged with various offenses related to child cruelty.
The Georgia Department of Daycare and Early Learning (DECAL) found that the daycare posed an imminent danger to children’s health and safety. In addition to administering inappropriate medication without consent or notification to parents, staff members allegedly engaged in abusive behavior towards children by raising their voices excessively and physically handling them roughly during redirection.
- Cathy Stevick: Charged with failing to report suspected child abuse.
- Kendasja Hughley: Initially arrested on misdemeanor charges; now facing felony child cruelty charges.
- Shelby Webb: Arrested for simple battery and first-degree cruelty to children.
The investigation revealed that management did not act upon surveillance footage showing the incidents until law enforcement intervened. Parents reported changes in their children’s behavior following the incidents but were not informed about any medication being administered at the daycare.
This situation highlights serious concerns regarding childcare safety protocols and accountability within educational facilities. As investigations proceed, further developments may arise concerning additional charges or findings related to this case.
