Babysitter Charged with Sexual Abuse in Michigan

A 63-year-old babysitter from Midland, Michigan, is facing serious allegations of sexually abusing children in her care, according to police reports.

Gaila Bennett was officially charged on Monday with 47 counts of sexual misconduct, stemming from incidents reported to have occurred between 2013 and 2020. Michigan State Police provided details about the charges, which encompass 24 counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct and 12 counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct involving children under 13, along with 11 counts of assault with intent to penetrate.

The abuse allegedly took place at Bennett’s residence on Prairie Road in Midland County. This investigation was initiated earlier this month when a family from Bay County reached out to law enforcement.

One victim shared with investigators that Bennett assaulted her almost daily since she was in kindergarten while babysitting. Reports suggest that Bennett may have documented the abuse through photographs.

Bennett was apprehended on October 17, and authorities have since seized multiple electronic devices from her home for further examination of the evidence.

Michigan State Police noted that the investigation is ongoing, and additional charges could be forthcoming.

Bennett is currently being held on a bail amount of $5 million and is expected to appear in court again on November 4.

Neither the Michigan State Police nor the Midland County Sheriff’s Department has provided immediate comments regarding the case.