A childcare worker accused of slapping two young children while they slept has been granted bail after spending a night in custody in Sydney’s southwest.
Jayendra Jung Shahi, 24, from Nepal, was arrested on Saturday following allegations he struck two boys, aged three and four, at Panania Montessori Academy.
Police allege CCTV footage captured the incidents during nap time about 1 pm on Thursday, showing the educator slapping the children across the face with an open hand. The matter was reported to authorities by a parent on Friday, prompting an investigation.
7News reported that officers arrested Shahi at a home in Belmore early Saturday morning. He was subsequently charged with two counts of common assault and appeared before a Sydney court on Sunday.
Acting Judge Amanda Coultas-Roberts described the allegations as serious, noting the incidents were said to have occurred while the children were asleep and under the care of someone entrusted with their well-being.
“They are pretty serious examples of common assault, as they were committed in circumstances where the accused was meant to care for children,” the court heard.
Shahi, who has lived in Australia for seven years, had recently completed a diploma in early childhood education and was reportedly working towards permanent residency. His lawyer told the court his mental health had declined following recent family tragedies, arguing he required support.
The court granted bail under strict conditions, including surrendering his passport and a ban on entering any childcare facilities.
The childcare centre confirmed the educator’s employment had been terminated.
“We take any concerns of this nature extremely seriously, and the safety, health and well-being of children is always our highest priority,” the centre said in a statement.
“As soon as we became aware of the allegation, immediate action was taken, including standing down the educator and reporting the matter to the police and regulatory authority.”
Shahi is due to return to court on May 7.
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