Daycare Teacher Assaulted Toddler, Morris County Prosecutor Says

MOUNT OLIVE, NJ — A now-former daycare teacher faces charges after Morris County officials said she assaulted a 16-month-old girl who was under her care.

Authorities said that Christina Susco, 38, was a teacher at Mount Olive Child Care and Learning Center at the time. Susco, of Budd Lake, is accused of harming the child on March 25.

Officials have charged her with second-degree endangering the welfare of a child, and third-degree aggravated assault. The day care center told Patch that it took immediate action, and her employment was terminated.

"This is an isolated and distressing incident, and we are shocked and embarrassed that this occurred at our Center, which has a 47-year history of service to the community and quality services to the children and families," said Executive Director Gail Reuther.

Reuther told Patch that officials have not yet given them full details about what happened.

"Our staff members are well-trained, and Christina knew the rules and procedures," she said.

Susco was released from the Morris County Correctional Facility on a series of conditions, including restraint from the day care center, said prosecutors.

Officials said they are still investigating the incident, and ask anyone who might have more information to call the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit at (973) 285-6200. No further information was released.

As of Wednesday at 12:30 p.m., Susco was still listed as one of the primary caregivers for infants on the child care center's website.

The nonprofit child care center serves children and families in Mt. Olive Township and nearby communities in Morris, Warren, and Sussex counties including Chester, Randolph, and Kenvil.