LPA interviewed RP 10/19/2023. RP stated C1 attended the facility on 10/02/2023 for about four hours. When C1 arrived at home they complained of left ear pain. RP observed a small cut about a centimeter in length that was swollen and red. RP asked C1 who injured them, C1 mentioned S1’s name. RP returned to the facility to inquire about the cut. RP also contacted Huntington Beach Police Department, and other medical experts. The medical experts were not able to confirm that the injury was from abuse.

On 10/28/2023, LPA received an update from RP stating they had reviewed the facility surveillance with facility management on 10/26/2023. RP stated after reviewing the videos, they did not observe any staff become physically aggressive toward C1.

LPA conducted a visit on 10/18/2023 and interviewed the Director, Assistant Director and 4 staff members. LPA also interviewed 5 children. LPA received a copy of the self-reported Unusual Incident Report dated 10/05/2023.

During the interview with staff, 4 out of 4 staff members were able to explain the personal rights of a child and provide examples. 4 out of 4 staff members were able to define the responsibilities of a mandated reporter. 4 out of 4 staff members denied ever observing staff treat children in a physically aggressive manner. S1 denied ever becoming physically aggressive toward C1. S1 stated they were not aware of C1’s injury and did not know how C1 sustained the injury.

LPA interviewed 5 children including C1. The children did not make any disclosures. During the interview with C1, they identified an injury on their left ear.

LPA contacted 5 parents for an interview. 2 out of 5 parents did not disclose any information pertinent to the complaint allegations.

On 12/29/2023, LPA spoke with a Detective from the Huntington Beach Police Department who stated their investigation was rescinded by RP after reviewing the facility surveillance. LPA obtained the police report of their investigation visits conducted on 10/12/2023. The report concluded no findings of child abuse.

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Based on LPA’s interviews conducted and record review, the allegation daycare child sustained unexplained injury while in care may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation did or did not occur, therefore the allegation is unsubstantiated.

Exit interview was conducted with Assistant Director Frances Aripez. The Notice of Site Visit was posted. Facility representative was informed that the Notice of Site Visit must be posted for 30 consecutive days. Failure to post will result in civil penalty of $100. Licensee was provided a copy of their appeal rights (LIC 9058) and their signature on this form acknowledges receipt of these rights. All appeals must be in writing and received by the Regional Office within 15 business days.

End of Report