Clarksville, TN – A former day care worker was sentenced on Thursday to 20 years in prison for abusing a 13-month-old girl in her care. Sarah Jo Fuson, 24, was convicted of aggravated child abuse and child abuse in October.
Fuson will serve her sentence without the possibility of parole. She received an additional four-year sentence to run concurrently.
During the hearing, Judge David Wolfe noted Fuson’s lack of remorse prior to the hearing and quoted her earlier claim, “I shouldn’t F–ing be here, I didn’t do anything.” Witnesses reported inconsistencies in Fuson’s statements regarding her actions during the incident.
The incident occurred in January 2023 at the Tylertown Learning Center in Clarksville. A video shown during the trial depicted Fuson forcefully slamming the child into a cot multiple times. Medical experts warned that the child might suffer from serious injuries, including a concussion.
Fuson faced allegations after the child returned home with visible injuries. Parents’ complaints led to an investigation that ultimately ended in Fuson’s termination from the day care.
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The defense claimed misinformation about the child’s injuries circulating rapidly in the community. The jury sided with the state and found Fuson guilty after reviewing the evidence.
In a statement during sentencing, Fuson expressed regret. Her mother also addressed the court, emphasizing Fuson’s positive attributes and their family’s need for her presence.
The victim’s mother spoke about the profound impact the incident had on her child and family, calling for the court to consider the child’s trauma. The case will have lasting effects on the victim and her family.
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