She Was Trusted to Care for Them. Instead, Babysitter Allegedly Abused Kids for Years — and Photographed It By Nicole Acosta

A Michigan babysitter is facing a slew of charges after being accused of sexually abusing children, authorities said.

Gaila Bennett, 63, of Midland, Mich., was arraigned Monday, Oct. 20 on 24 counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct, 12 counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct, and 11 counts of assault with intent to commit sexual penetration, CBS News, WSGW and the Midland Daily News reported.

Michigan State Police began investigating Bennett on Oct. 5 when a mother reported that her children were sexually abused while in Bennett’s care, the Midland Daily News reported, citing police. One of the victims alleged the abuse started when she was in kindergarten.

Police claimed the sexual abuse occurred at Bennett’s home between 2013 and 2020, per a statement on X. Bennett was arrested on Oct. 17 and authorities subsequently seized electronic devices from her home, police said.

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According to the Midland Daily News and WSGW, authorities allege Bennett took photos of the victims being sexually assaulted.

It’s unclear if she has entered a plea or retained an attorney to speak on her behalf. According to court records cited by CBS News, Bennett is being held on a $5 million bond and is expected back in court on Nov. 4.

Police said the investigation remains ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact Michigan State Police Tpr. Patrick Roy at 989-280-7189.