Four employees at a New Hampshire daycare, including the owner, have been arrested and charged with endangering the welfare of a child after allegedly sprinkling melatonin in the food of children without their parents' knowledge or consent.
The Manchester Police Department announced the arrests of Sally Dreckmann, 52, the daycare owner; and her employees Traci Innie, 51; Kaitlin Filardo, 23; and Jessica Foster, 23, all of Manchester. Each faces 10 counts of endangering the welfare of a child.
The investigation began in November 2023 after authorities were alerted to "unsafe practices" at the daycare. Police determined that children's food was being spiked with melatonin, a sleep-aid.
Melatonin is generally considered safe for short-term use, but it is concerning when administered to children without their parents' knowledge or consent, according to Heather Hamel, a spokesperson for the Manchester Police Department.
"This is an over-the-counter drug that can be given as a sleep aid, but for it to be given to children without the knowledge or consent of the parents, it's very concerning," Hamel told WDHD.
None of the children required medical attention, police said.
The arrests follow recent incidents of daycare workers facing charges for questionable practices. In Texas, four preschool students were exposed to THC gummies in their classroom, leading to the arrest of a teacher.
In another incident, three workers at a Rhode Island daycare were charged with child cruelty after allegedly taping a 2-year-old boy's mouth shut.
These cases highlight the importance of thorough background checks and proper training for daycare workers. Parents should be vigilant in vetting care providers and reporting any suspicious or inappropriate behavior.
Daycares are designed to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children. When caregivers violate this trust, it can have lasting consequences for the well-being of the children in their care.
It is essential that daycare operators prioritize the safety and welfare of the children under their supervision and adhere to established standards of care. Authorities should continue to investigate and prosecute those who violate these standards to protect children from harm.
