A troubling incident in St. Charles, Illinois has left parents shaken and authorities investigating after a daycare worker was accused of intentionally giving chewable laxatives to toddlers under her care.
According to the St. Charles Police Department, 23-year-old Yizel J. Juarez of Sycamore, Illinois has been charged in connection with the alleged incidents at a local childcare facility in the 2400 block of West Main Street. Police say the victims were all very young children—three toddlers age 2 or younger—who were under Juarez’s supervision when the alleged misconduct occurred.
Allegations and Arrest
Multiple parents reportedly contacted police after noticing their children had unexpected symptoms, which later were linked to laxative use. Authorities allege Juarez provided the children with chewable laxatives, telling them the pills were candy. The motive, according to several reports, was to make the children sick so they would be sent home early—something Juarez reportedly felt would easier workload or relief because she was overwhelmed.
Juarez was terminated from her position at the daycare soon after the allegations came to light. She turned herself in to police and was released pending a court date, facing six criminal counts including attempted aggravated battery and child endangerment.
Reactions and Concerns
Parents whose children were affected expressed deep concern and devastation following the incident. Some told news outlets that their children had experienced ongoing gastrointestinal issues and unexplained symptoms for weeks before the cause was identified.
The case has also raised broader questions about staffing pressures and safety in child care settings, especially as caregivers juggle challenging workloads with very young children. While investigations are ongoing, police have urged anyone with additional information about the case to contact the St. Charles Police Department.
Legal and Safety Issues
The charges against Juarez include multiple counts of attempted aggravated battery—for allegedly causing bodily harm—and child endangerment. These are serious allegations that will be adjudicated in court. Legal experts note that case outcomes can hinge on the evidence presented as well as witness statements and expert testimony.
In addition to criminal proceedings, cases like this often prompt reviews by state agencies responsible for childcare licensing and compliance to ensure that facilities meet safety and staffing standards. Child care centers in Illinois are regulated to protect health and wellness, and violations can lead to sanctions, fines, or loss of license.
Bottom Line
This incident highlights the vulnerability of children in group care settings and the importance of rigorous hiring practices, staff training, and supervision. Parents and communities rely on childcare providers to act with professionalism and care, and when that trust is violated, it can have lasting effects on families and local perceptions of early childhood education environments.
