Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) and the state Child Protective Services (CPS) have opened an active investigation after a 4‑year‑old boy was allegedly assaulted by his behavioral therapist during a one‑on‑one session at Springs of Life Children’s Center on Academy Place.
What happened
According to an incident report obtained by KRDO13, the child was in a spare classroom for a nap when the therapist began a session. The assistant director of the center’s North location said she heard the child crying and found the therapist telling her the child was trying to tie a scarf around his neck. The therapist allegedly responded by tying the child’s neck “to learn his lesson.” The child later complained of neck pain, and staff discovered a red mark on the back of his neck.
Center’s response
Springs of Life Children’s Center said it takes the matter “very seriously” and that the therapist, as well as any therapist from GraceWay Collective Behavioral Therapy, will no longer be allowed on its premises. The center emphasized that the therapist was not an employee of the daycare; the family contracted the therapist independently through GraceWay Collective. The center’s leadership noted that the space used for the session was an unused classroom adjacent to the director’s office, a location they claim is normally visible to staff.
“We intervened immediately to ensure the child’s safety, reported the incident to the state line, contacted GraceWay Collective, and notified the child’s parent,” the center’s statement read. “We will cooperate fully with the appropriate authorities and defer to them regarding any further investigation and findings.”
Family and therapist statements
The child’s family told KRDO13 that GraceWay Collective notified them the therapist was terminated immediately after the incident. The family also said they have chosen not to be interviewed at this time to protect the investigation and the child’s identity. KRDO13’s attempts to reach GraceWay Collective for comment have not been returned, and the therapist has not responded to requests for comment.
Law‑enforcement and CPS involvement
CSPD confirmed the investigation is open and active. CPS has been notified, and a reference number has been shared with the parties involved. No official charges have been filed at this stage.
Community impact
The incident has raised concerns among parents about the safety of outside therapeutic services conducted on daycare premises. While Springs of Life Children’s Center maintains that it permits such sessions only when families arrange them independently, the center reiterated its commitment to “a safe environment for every child entrusted to our care.”
Parents in the Colorado Springs area are encouraged to stay informed about the investigation’s progress and to discuss any safety concerns directly with their child‑care providers.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
