Daycare Worker Charged After Child's Leg Allegedly Broken

Ashley Nicole Taris faces felony child abuse charge for incident at KinderCare center

Apr. 14, 2026 at 4:51pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a fractured child's leg bone, captured with harsh, direct lighting to create a stark, gritty investigative aesthetic, conceptually representing the serious injury at the center of this daycare abuse case.A recent daycare incident involving an alleged broken leg raises troubling questions about the treatment and safety of children in childcare facilities.Today in Raleigh

A 24-year-old former daycare worker in Raleigh, North Carolina has been charged with felony child abuse after allegedly fracturing a young boy's leg while placing him in a 'criss-cross applesauce' position at a KinderCare center. Authorities say the child's injury is not consistent with the worker's explanation that she fell on his leg while doing 'donkey kicks'.

Why it matters

This case highlights the importance of proper training and oversight in childcare facilities to prevent abuse and ensure the safety of young children. It also raises questions about the use of certain physical positioning techniques and the need for clear policies and procedures to protect vulnerable kids.

The details

According to the arrest warrant, the incident occurred on August 22, 2025 at the KinderCare center where Ashley Nicole Taris was employed. The child said Taris injured him 'while placing (them) in the 'criss-cross applesauce' position.' Medical findings showed a spiral fracture of the tibia consistent with the child's account. Taris gave a different explanation, saying she was doing 'donkey kicks' and fell on his leg, but prosecutors say this is not consistent with the child's injury. Taris was arrested and is being held without bond, and is barred from having contact with the child. State regulators determined that Taris 'aggressively' pulled the child's leg, causing the fractures.

  • The alleged incident occurred on August 22, 2025.
  • Taris was arrested on April 14, 2026.
  • Taris' next court date is April 30, 2026.

The players

Ashley Nicole Taris

A 24-year-old former employee of the KinderCare daycare center in Raleigh, North Carolina who has been charged with felony child abuse inflicting serious bodily injury.

KinderCare

The daycare center where the alleged incident took place. KinderCare stated that Taris is no longer employed there and has not worked at the center since October 2025.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The judge will decide on April 30 whether to allow Ashley Nicole Taris to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for rigorous training, oversight, and clear policies in childcare facilities to prevent abuse and protect vulnerable children. It also raises questions about the use of certain physical positioning techniques and the responsibility of daycare providers to ensure the safety of the kids in their care.