Former Wayne Teacher's Aide 'Slammed, Dragged' 2-Year-Old: Officials

WAYNE, NJ — A teacher's aide has been charged with child abuse after she assaulted a two-year-old at Apple Montessori School in Wayne, officials said.

On Tuesday the Passaic County Prosecutor announced charges against 19-year-old Meghan Hornidge of River Edge, for an incident that injured a child in her care.

The preschool, day care, and elementary school is located at 25 Nevins Road in Wayne.

According to Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes, Hornidge caused the 2-year-old to sustain bodily injury when she "slammed and dragged" the child at the school on Aug. 12.

Valdes' office began investigating the next day, after the assault was reported. Hornidge has been charged with fourth-degree abuse of a child and simple assault via a complaint summons, Valdes said.

Andrea Vargas, CEO of Apple Montessori Schools, said Hornidge was immediately terminated, and that the school promptly notified parents and state authorities.

"We are aware of and have been cooperating with the investigation since day one," Vargas said.

"We maintain rigorous hiring standards and checks for our employees, and the safety of the children in our care continues to be our top priority," she added.

The charges have been referred to the county Grand Jury. If convicted, the charge of fourth-degree abuse of a child carries a maximum sentence of 18 years in prison.

Attorney information for Hornidge was not immediately available.