Fairfax Day Care Owner Cited For Neglect And Abuse Of 8-Month-Old Child: Authorities

FAIRFAX, VA — The owner of a Fairfax child-care business was charged Thursday night with abuse and neglect of a child, Fairfax County Police said in a news release.

An 8-month-old infant was treated Jan. 20 at a local hospital on Jan 20 for significant bruising to the upper body, according to police.

Child Abuse Squad detectives filed charges against in-home day-care operator Shaista Laiq, 67, of Fairfax on Thursday, officials said.

The baby was at Laiq's daycare at 10858 Santa Clara Drive in the Fairfax area of the county on Jan. 19. Investigators said the child's parents noticed the bruises when they picked their child up at the daycare.

Authorities said the baby's injuries were not life-threatening, but likely stemmed from abuse.

Hospital staff contacted Child Protective Services about the child's injuries, and police were then notified police, the release said.

Laiq was taken to the Adult Detention Center and later released on an unsecured bond.

She operated the daycare for more than 20 years. Police said the business is being shut down.

If any parent believes their child was harmed by Laiq, they can call the Major Crimes Bureau at 703-246-7800, option 3. Anonymous tips may be submitted through Crime Solvers by phone – 1-866-411-TIPS (866-411-8477), by text – Type “FCCS” plus tip to 847411, and by going online.