A licensed vocational nurse (LVN) in Texas turned herself in Wednesday after being accused of hitting a child with autism. Police have said this event was recorded on camera, which they were able to obtain. An arrest warrant was issued for the woman, 48-year-old Gabriela Bejarano Pena, after police had received a tape showing the crime.
Official Charges
Pena was arrested on charges of injury to a child/elderly/disabled. Pena turned herself in after the warrant was issued, to police at the Brownsville Police Department.
What Happened
According to police, the event took place on December 17, 2022. At the time Pena, an LVN, had been caring for a 3-year-old nonverbal child with autism whom Pena had “struck” twice. This was revealed as video surveillance from inside the residency caught Pena hitting the child as she attempted to change them.
Latest
In early March, the child’s parents turned the video over to the police. On March 20 detectives called Pena in to discuss the case but Pena did not come in. Instead, she got a lawyer who notified the station Pena would not be coming in or providing a statement. Monday, April 3, the department issued the warrant for Pena’s arrest. Wednesday, April 5, she turned herself in. It is truly disgusting how some people treat children, especially a child who could not express themselves. For now, Pena’s bond has been set at $20,000.
