Surveillance footage has come to light showing a babysitter funded by the city mistreating three young children. The video reveals that La’keysha Jackson, 24, frequently frightened the children, using belts and wearing unsettling costumes like Santa Claus.
Jackson began working for Bronx resident Geraldine Jaramiro through a city program about a year ago. Jaramiro’s family didn’t realize the extent of the babysitter’s actions until the children’s grandmother reviewed the footage.
Despite complaints about Jackson’s conduct being reported to both the ACS and NYPD, she has yet to be arrested, though she faces felony charges. The video evidence indicates that she hit the children nearly 60 times, according to a notice of claim filed by Jaramiro’s attorney.
In a disturbing clip from May 6, Jackson is seen striking one child while holding her arm down, preventing her from escaping the blow. It seems the two older kids, aged 4 and 6, were upset over not having cleaned their room, leading to Jackson’s threats.
One child, dressed in a shirt with “Heaven has been sent,” can be heard responding to her, indicating they were already aware of the punishment to come. Jackson’s response seemed almost casual, as she pulled out a thick brown belt from her bag.
Moreover, the babysitter dressed in alarming outfits, including a grotesque Halloween mask, which Jaramiro found when examining Jackson’s belongings.
According to documents shared with Jaramiro, Jackson was hired through a provider that works with ACS, meant to assist families in need. However, Jaramiro, who had initially sought help due to fleeing a violent situation, now finds herself in a nightmare scenario.
Jaramiro had seen Jackson as a family member, even celebrating holidays together and allowing her to stay overnight to save travel time.
They later discovered shocking details about Jackson’s behavior, and Jaramiro noted that the children were terrified to engage in normal activities, like going to the bathroom. The boys have also begun to exhibit aggressive behavior toward each other.
Jaramiro expressed her anguish, stating, “I don’t know where they are learning these things.” The family grappled with the trauma the children faced, compounded by the misunderstanding that the babysitter was there to help.
Despite Jackson’s claims of affection for the children in her last text message, the family is left questioning her actions. Jaramiro’s relative has stepped in to help with childcare, and she is seeking justice for what her children endured.
It remains to be clarified how much Jackson was compensated for her services, as data hints at a substantial contract between her employer and ACS. Following the incident, ACS initiated investigations related to Jackson’s actions.
An ACS spokesperson mentioned that Jackson is no longer employed and that they are collaborating with the NYPD regarding the situation. The spokesperson emphasized that they take such behavior seriously and are reviewing their procedures.
Jackson’s employer has confirmed her termination and noted they are conducting background checks and drug tests on all their staff.
As the investigation unfolds, community members react diversely, with Jackson’s brother implying that such disciplinary measures are commonplace in black families, a controversial take amidst the circumstances.
Meanwhile, Jaramiro emphasizes her desire for clarity and accountability, insisting, “I really want to get to the bottom of this.”
