Police Open Inquiry Into Alleged Abuse at São José do Rio Preto Daycare After Whistleblower’s Note

Overview

• A former worker hid a note in a child’s bottle and later sent the mother photos and videos showing the boy sweaty, soiled and seated alone in a high chair.
• The ex-employee alleges children faced insults and harsh treatment, including shouts of “marginal,” a kick to a boy’s leg, shaking of toddlers, cockroaches, poor hygiene, inadequate cooling and badly stored food.
• At least five mothers have reported concerns to police, expanding on initial complaints that began after the whistleblower’s outreach.
• The lead investigator confirmed an inquest has been opened, and city education officials said the location is not registered as an early-childhood school but as a recreation business.
• Daycare management denies wrongdoing, calling the shared images distorted and out of context, asserting no child was harmed and saying legal measures are underway.