A 63-year-old babysitter from Michigan has been charged with 48 felony counts after allegedly sexually abusing several children under her care for years.
According to Michigan State Police, Gaila Bennett, from Midland, was arraigned on Monday, October 20, on 24 counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct, 12 counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct, and 12 counts of assault with intent to commit sexual penetration.
Police said they began investigating Bennett on October 5 after a mother reported that her children had been sexually abused while staying at the suspect’s home. One of the victims told investigators that the abuse started when she was in kindergarten.
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Authorities allege the incidents happened at Bennett’s home between 2013 and 2020. Following her arrest on October 17, investigators seized several electronic devices from her residence as part of the ongoing probe.
Police also claimed that Bennett took photos of the victims during the assaults, which may be used as evidence in court.
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Gaila Bennett is currently being held on a $5 million bond and is scheduled to appear in court again on November 4. It is not yet clear whether she has entered a plea or secured legal representation.
The case has shocked the Midland community, with authorities urging parents to come forward if they suspect their children may have been in contact with the accused during the period under investigation.
