Sisters Charged with Multiple Counts of Child Abuse at Fox Point Daycare

FOX POINT, Wis. – Two sisters, Jilnya and Jakya Chandler, are facing multiple child abuse charges linked to their employment at Nurturing Nook daycare in Fox Point. The allegations emerged following reports of injuries to several children in their care, which have led authorities to issue arrest warrants as part of an ongoing investigation.

The Chandlers, both 25 years old, are each charged with eight counts of physical abuse of a child, combined with additional felony charges for repeated acts causing bodily harm. The charges stem from incidents that occurred in October and November 2024, shortly after the sisters began working at the facility in September.

The investigation was initiated after a parent reported their one-year-old child exhibiting unexplained bruises, prompting medical attention at Children’s Hospital. Police subsequently discovered that multiple children had similar injuries, leading to a review of surveillance footage from the daycare.

According to the 21-page criminal complaint, the abuse primarily occurred in the Teddies Classroom, where children were subjected to physical torment. Investigators reported that the footage showed the sisters pinching children’s ears, hitting them, and using demeaning language. One child was observed going home with bruises on the neck, back, and thighs.

“The emotional toll that it’s taken on our family can’t be overstated,” a parent of one of the victims expressed. “To hear that that trust has been broken is just devastating beyond words.”

Witness accounts also indicated that the children exhibited behavioral changes, including increased fear during drop-offs and night terrors. The distressing circumstances prompted the Fox Point Police Department to take action, leading to the discharge of the Chandlers from their jobs at Nurturing Nook.

In a statement, the daycare confirmed their full cooperation with the investigation, ensuring that the actions of the former employees did not align with their commitment to child safety. “We just became aware of the additional charges filed against two former employees. The safety and well-being of the children in our care are our top priorities,” a spokesperson stated.

As the legal proceedings unfold, both sisters deny the accusations but are currently not in custody. Prosecutors are also exploring three additional cases regarding potential abuse, indicating that further charges could be forthcoming.

Authorities urge any other individuals with information related to the Chandlers or the Nurturing Nook daycare to come forward to assist with the investigation. The case underscores the critical importance of vigilance and oversight in childcare facilities.