Child abuser admits guilt

A former child care worker pleaded guilty Monday to two counts of abusing her sister's child while he was under her care.

Carolyn Anderson, who was employed at Eagle Valley Children's Home at the time of her March arrest, agreed to plead guilty to two gross misdemeanors in exchange for two other charges being dropped.

Because each gross misdemeanor count carries a penalty of up to one year in jail, Anderson, 26, could serve two years. The maximum fine is $2,000.

Anderson was arrested March 25 when deputies went to investigate a 6:15 a.m. abuse report from her sister, reporting injuries to her 3-year-old child.

When a detective contacted Anderson at her work, she reportedly admitted to the crimes, saying she had enough of her own children and got carried away in disciplining them.

Anderson said she was also taking care of her sister's four children at the time. She admitted repeatedly hitting children ages 15 months to 7 years old.

After examination of the children, three had visible redness and bruising on the buttocks and lower back areas and two had fingernail impressions on the sides of their necks, according to the report.

Anderson told the detective that she could not handle her children any more and needed help with anger.

As part of the plea agreement prosecutors will recommend 90 days in jail followed by a lengthy term of probation. Sentencing is set for August 25.