ABC 7 Chicago has reported that a daycare worker has been accused of sexually abusing two students at The Learning Tree located at 845 Summit St, Elgin, IL 60120.
Former daycare teacher, Frank Walaitis, remains behind bars after two students accused him of abuse at the daycare center. Walaitis, 57, is facing six counts of felony aggravated criminal sexual abuse charges. Some of the charges date back to 2008, but the most recent occurred this year. He taught four- and five-year-olds at the center, and many parents were alarmed to hear the news.
Police reopened the case from 2008 upon hearing of the newer allegations. According to the letter sent home to parents, the case was closed, and no criminal charges were filed. However, the newer charges involve the reopened case. The center has stated that Walaitis has been fired and they plan to work with the authorities during the investigation. Police are concerned there may be additional victims.
Attorney contributor Guy D'Andrea represents sex abuse victims and their families in civil lawsuits in Illinois. Brian discussed how filing a daycare sex abuse lawsuit could help victims and their families get the justice they deserve.
"Parents trust daycare workers to look after their children during the day. They expect their child's safety, education, and development to be guarded as a top priority. Sadly, predators seek positions within these establishments to target vulnerable children. When sexual abuse occurs at a daycare, it's important that those involved are held accountable."
"The trauma of a child being sexually molested at a daycare should not be something that a parent has to live with. However, when this occurs, an investigation must be conducted to see if the abuse could have been prevented. For daycares to get licensed, certain safety policies should be in place for prevention and reporting. This may include background checks for all employees and proper disciplinary action in the event of misconduct claims. If a daycare failed to maintain basic security procedures, they could be held liable in a civil lawsuit."
"Daycare sexual abuse victims and their parents should speak to an experienced sex abuse lawyer to learn more about their legal right to file a lawsuit. The lawyer will examine the case and help identify all parties who might be held accountable."