Daycare employee given sentence for taping a toddler’s eyes and tying their hands

Daycare Worker Sentenced for Child Abuse in Ohio

An Ohio daycare worker has been sentenced to multiple years in prison following allegations of mistreatment towards a 2-year-old child. Caitlin Ann Strohacker, who worked at Over the Rainbow Children’s Center in Licking County, faced 31 charges including kidnapping and child endangerment after entering a no contest plea. Court records show she received a sentence ranging from eight to twelve years.

The situation came to light in August 2025 when parents expressed their concerns about how young children were being treated at the facility.

According to legal documents, Strohacker admitted to using paint tape to restrain the child and acknowledged that she had committed various abusive acts. In one instance, a child remained bound until co-workers intervened.

Investigators reviewed surveillance footage, which indicated that Strohacker’s abusive behavior was a recurring issue over several weeks, impacting at least eight children. Reports indicated instances of pushing, kicking, and other forms of mistreatment.

One specific incident involved her deliberately jamming a child’s finger in a cabinet door. Court documents elaborate on how she pushed and pulled the children, detailing an event on July 11, 2025, when she intended to trap a victim’s finger.

The repercussions for the children were significant. Some exhibited severe anxiety, behavioral issues, and even nightmares as a result of the treatment they received.

Strohacker had been employed at the daycare for over three years, during which she had completed all the required training and continuing education.

During the sentencing, parents shared their emotional struggles stemming from the abuse. One mother expressed her hope that Strohacker would never be able to care for children again, stating, “I can’t wish you mercy, as we pray God won’t do that.”

Another parent recounted the lasting effects on her young daughter, noting that she had been experiencing sleep disturbances and aggression since she was two.

As for Strohacker, she faces a potential sentence ranging from 87 to 92 and a half years in prison. Throughout the hearing, she mostly remained silent, responding only to the judge’s inquiries. Her attorney did offer a brief apology on her behalf to the family of the victims.