Tampa Daycare Worker Faces Child Abuse Charges

TAMPA, FL — A Tampa daycare worker facing child abuse charges has been arrested, the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office said Tuesday.

The allegations against Panda Hugs Academy worker Denario Powell, 26, started on Dec. 30, 2024, authorities said.

Powell was accused of taking a 3-year-old child to a bathroom at the Bruce B. Downs Boulevard daycare, where authorities said the child's cries and loud banging could be heard. Authorities said Powell yelled during the incident - all heard on surveillance video.

The child approached a witness after leaving the bathroom, touched his neck and pointed toward Powell, authorities said.

Multiple lacerations and abrasions to the face and neck were found on the child, who was under Powell's care at the time, authorities said.

Powell was arrested Tuesday and was charged on suspicion of one count of child abuse, authorities said.

"No child should ever endure harm at the hands of someone entrusted with their care and education," Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a news release. "The actions of this individual are beyond reprehensible, and we will ensure justice is served for this child. Let this arrest send a clear message: we will not tolerate anyone who threatens the safety and well-being of the children in our community."

Patch has reached out to the daycare for comment.