Cleveland, Ala. — August 25, 2025 — Two individuals employed at the Cleveland location of Blessing By Day Childcare are facing criminal charges following an alleged abuse incident involving a 1-year-old child.
Christa Castleberry, who was supervising the toddler at the time, is charged with child abuse torture. According to court paperwork, she allegedly pushed the child’s head into a cot on at least four occasions, resulting in an injury to the child’s eye .
Elizabeth Payne, identified in court documents as the manager of the childcare facility, is accused of violating Alabama’s mandatory reporter law by failing to notify either the Department of Human Resources (DHR) or law enforcement of the incident .
This case underscores Alabama’s legal obligations surrounding child welfare, including the duties of childcare professionals to report suspected abuse immediately. Further developments, including any court dates or statements from legal representatives or the childcare center, are expected as the case proceeds.