Diane Fenton: At-Home Day Care Owner Charged with Child Endangerment and Assault

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Police in Walpole have arrested the owner of an at-home day care on child endangerment charges after she allegedly attacked her husband with a baseball bat while caring for three young children. Diane Fenton, 58, pleaded not guilty to assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, assault and battery on a household or family member, and three counts of reckless endangerment of a child.

The incident took place on September 20th when Walpole police responded to a reported physical disturbance at Fenton’s home on Plain Street. Upon arrival, officers found Fenton standing in the middle of the road, swinging a baseball bat at her husband’s arms and torso. Fenton dropped the bat when an officer drew his taser and she was promptly arrested. Fortunately, her husband did not require medical attention.

Inside the home, police discovered a 4-year-old, a 3-year-old, and an infant. The infant was found lying face-down on the carpet. Officers stayed at the residence until the children’s parents arrived to pick them up.

According to court documents, Fenton’s husband revealed that she had a history of alcohol abuse and infidelity. He had given her an ultimatum to remain married if she would abstain from alcohol and attend Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. However, on the day of the incident, he returned home from work to find Fenton intoxicated, which led to a confrontation. Fenton responded by becoming physically violent, hitting him with her fists and pulling at his clothing.

The police report also mentioned a previous incident where Fenton had allegedly cut her husband’s face and neck with a knife when he tried to prevent her from driving drunk.

Fenton was released on personal recognizance but was ordered to stay away from her husband, refrain from alcohol, and not care for any children under the age of 14. She appeared in court for a pretrial hearing on Thursday, and her next court date is scheduled for December 19th.

It is disturbing to think that a person entrusted with the care of children could engage in such violent behavior. This incident raises concerns about the safety and well-being of children in home day care settings. It serves as a reminder of the importance of thorough background checks and monitoring for those operating such facilities.

Childcare providers must prioritize the safety of the children in their care and ensure that they are in a nurturing and secure environment. Parents should also be vigilant in selecting a reputable and responsible day care provider for their children.

The case against Diane Fenton will continue to unfold in court, and it remains to be seen what further legal actions will be taken..