Charges Filed Against Tel Aviv Daycare Owner and Assistants for Abusing Toddlers

Indictments were filed on Monday against Natali Shahar, owner of the "Gan Hiyuchim" daycare in Tel Aviv, and two assistants, Ortal Levi and Shira Ariel, for multiple counts of assault and abuse of toddlers. The charges detail violent behavior toward children aged six months to one and a half years, including one incident where Levi caused a toddler's arm fracture. Levi, 39, allegedly attacked children repeatedly since November 2024, sometimes in the presence of Shahar, 42, who is also accused of assaulting two toddlers and failing to prevent the abuse by the assistants.

The indictment describes Levi creating an atmosphere of fear, treating toddlers like objects by throwing them onto floors or mattresses, pulling their arms forcefully, pinching, hitting, and pushing them. Some children suffered injuries, sleep and eating disorders, weight loss, and behavioral changes. In one case, Levi twisted a toddler's arm during a diaper change, causing a fracture that required hospitalization and a cast. The child exhibited pain and immobility throughout the day without parental notification.

Shira Ariel, 63, from Bat Yam, faces charges for assaulting toddlers by pulling them by one hand, pushing their heads into mattresses, and force-feeding. The prosecution has requested to extend the defendants' ban from working with minors until the legal proceedings conclude. This follows six new complaints against the daycare staff amid allegations of abuse at the Tel Aviv center.