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Written by: E. George
Published November 11, 2024 @ 6:05 PM ET
Warning: The following story contains information regarding alleged physical violence against children.
SPALDING COUNTY, Ga. – A 64-year-old woman faces 20 years in prison after a Spalding County jury convicted her on three counts of child cruelty following multiple reports of suspected abuse. Connie Pound owned and facilitated a state-certified daycare program in her Griffin home until 2022, when parents began reporting injuries.
Reports were filed for children at Pound’s program between 2013 and 2022. The investigation began on March 31, 2022, when a parent found and reported suspicious bruising to her 15-month-old daughter’s neck and head.
The parent explained that they had found bruises on the child’s arms, ears, and head prior to filing the report as well. The District Attorney’s Office revealed that this report ignited a months-long investigation conducted by the Griffin Police Department.
The jury was presented evidence involving seven additional infants and toddlers before deliberating for just under four hours and returning a verdict.
The jurors found the suspect guilty on three counts, acquitted her on three counts, and could not return a unanimous verdict on three counts. Pound was sentenced to 10 years probation to be served upon her release after 20 years in confinement.
Parents of victims continue to report incidents of abuse sustained at Pound’s daycare. Officials booked her back into the Spalding County Jail on Saturday, November 2, 2024.
Griffin Judicial Circuit District Attorney Marie G. Broder stated, “This case had been a difficult one for everyone involved. I am hopeful that this verdict brings peace to the families of these precious babies and sends a message to the community that we will not tolerate abuse against our most vulnerable.”