French Daycare Worker Sentenced to 25 Years for Killing Baby with Drain Cleaner

The case has ignited a national conversation in France over the safety and regulation of private childcare services.

A 30-year-old daycare worker in Lyon, France, was convicted of torture resulting in death and sentenced to 25 years in prison for killing an 11-month-old baby with drain cleaner.
The worker admitted to the act during the trial but denied intending to kill the child, claiming she was overwhelmed by the baby’s crying.
Prosecutor Baptiste Godreau argued that the worker acted deliberately and with full awareness, taking the life of a defenseless child.
The daycare manager acknowledged hiring an inexperienced worker, raising concerns about oversight and hiring practices in private childcare facilities.
This incident has reignited debates in France about the safety and regulation of private childcare services, reflecting broader systemic issues in childcare across Europe.