Daycare Owner Facing Murder Charges For Child Who Accidentally Hung Himself On Playground

On Friday, Sept. 26, ex-daycare owner Janna Thompson was indicted on charges of second degree murder and child cruelty. According to the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office, the charges follow the accidental death of Thomas Maxwell Stephens, a 3-year-old who died of asphyxia while in Thompson’s care on July 9.

The toddler accidentally hung himself on the playground of Ms Janna’s Home Child Care. According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution, Thompson told police she found the child with a piece of twine around his neck. By the time she learned of the accident, he was no longer breathing. She called 911 and attempted to perform CPR. Unfortunately, the little boy died in his mother’s arms the following day at a local hospital.

Investigative documentation from the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) stated that the daycare was in violation of state rules and regulations. Thompson was reportedly caring for seven children at the time of the accident. Thompson’s daycare center was only allowed to care for a maximum of six children.

“While the children were playing, one toddler began misbehaving,” the document stated. “The Provider took this child inside leaving three children unsupervised on the playground. While inside, the Provider used the restroom, received a phone call and made a phone call.”

However, this isn’t the first time the daycare has received a citation. Back in January, Thompson reportedly received a notice following an inspection. Several potential hazards were found on the playground, including an unraveled water hose, excessive tree limbs and pine cones, and a wheel barrow near a fence, reports Channel 2 Action News.

Thompson’s released a statement days after the child’s untimely death:

“We, as a family known as Ms. Janna’s Home Daycare, are deeply grieving the tragic accidental loss of this precious child. I have cared for Max in my home for three years and he was loved as one of my own. My grief pales in comparison to that of his parents. We are a family of faith and abiding trust in our Lord Jesus. Please give your support and prayers for his family as we look to the Lord for His help during this difficult time.”

Radar Online reports although Thompson has been charged and the daycare is shut down, she has not been taken into custody.

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