Lindale, TX – Catherine Guziejka, a 45-year-old day care worker, has received a 10-year prison sentence for abusing multiple toddlers at Punkin’ Doodles Day Care. The abuse occurred over several months and was documented through security footage.
Guziejka pleaded guilty in September to charges of injury to a child with intent to cause bodily injury. The incidents took place between July and October when Guziejka was observed kicking children in the back and performing other abusive actions.
Smith County assistant district attorney Richard Vance stated Guziejka received the longest sentence permissible for her offense. Victim families expressed dissatisfaction with the severity of the sentence.
Investigations began on October 23 when an employee reported Guziejka after viewing surveillance footage. This review led to the discovery of 134 instances of Guziejka assaulting at least six 2-year-olds.
The court heard multiple reports of Guziejka kicking toddlers while they were seated and using other forms of aggression. Victims were seen being forcibly held down or dragged to changing tables.
Melanie Dawn Law, the former owner of the day care, confirmed to police that Guziejka had been abusing children since July. Guziejka was terminated from her position once the footage was revealed, and all pertinent videos were handed to investigators.
Sheriff Larry Smith remarked on the fortunate circumstance that no serious injuries occurred, noting only minor bruises were reported among victims.
Guziejka’s defense attorneys cited her low IQ in an attempt to explain her behavior. However, Vance highlighted that the children showed no clear reason for the ongoing abuse, raising concerns about their long-term mental health.
