Sydney childcare worker charged after allegedly slapping sleeping children
Jayendra Jung Shahi was identified after a parent reported injuries on Friday
A childcare worker in Sydney has been arrested and charged after allegedly slapping two young children in his care.
New South Wales Police received reports that Jayendra Jung Shahi, 24, assaulted two boys, aged 3 and 4, at a Montessori Academy in the suburb of Panania.
The incident reportedly occurred on Thursday, April 23, at approximately 1:00 p.m. local time. According to a media release, Shahi allegedly struck both children in the face with an open hand while they were sleeping, an act captured on the centre's CCTV system.
Following an investigation initiated by a parent's complaint, police arrested Shahi on the morning of Saturday. He has since been charged with two counts of assault.
A spokesperson for the Montessori Academy informed 9 News that the educator was removed from his duties immediately and his employment has been terminated.
The centre confirmed they had reported the matter to both the police and the relevant regulatory authority.
Shahi, originally from Nepal and a resident of Australia for seven years, was released on bail. The court granted his release on the conditions that he surrender his passport and refrain from visiting any childcare facilities.
His attorney, James Moore, informed the court that Shahi requires mental health support and intends to seek professional counselling.
Shahi has no prior criminal history, which influenced the magistrate's decision regarding bail. This disturbing case follows his tenure at the academy, which provides education for children aged 0 to 6 within the local community.