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A now former aide at a Baldwin daycare center is accused of sexually abusing two young boys while working at the facility, according to Nassau County authorities.
Police say Asia Oliver, 27, inappropriately touched two boys at the Learn and Play Center on Grand Avenue. Prosecutors said the alleged victims are both under the age of 14.
Oliver, who court records show worked as an aide at the center, was arrested Thursday. She appeared before a judge Friday morning. She is charged with sexual abuse and endangering the welfare of a child.
Neighbors expressed shock over the allegations at the popular childcare facility.
“It’s unfortunate,” said Djuana Wilson, of Baldwin.
Wilson says she regularly sees parents dropping off and picking up children at the center.
According to police, the alleged incidents occurred twice during the month of July while Oliver was employed at the daycare.
The owner of the Learn and Play Center declined to comment on the allegations but said Oliver is no longer employed there.
“I hope that this will bring awareness to parents to just make them more aware of who they trust with their children,” said Christophe Whyte, of Freeport.
Anthony Zenkus, with the Association of Professionals Solving the Abuse of Children, said daycare centers, camps and schools should adopt stronger safeguards and staff training programs designed to prevent and identify abuse.
“Sadly, right now there is no law requiring training to prevent abuse from happening at these sites,” Zenkus said.
He said facilities should implement policies that limit opportunities for abuse, including ensuring that “no adult can ever be alone with a child.”
The Nassau County District Attorney’s Office said a judge set bail for Oliver at $50,000 cash and issued orders of protection in the case.
The investigation remains ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to contact law enforcement.