Nationwide Manhunt Launched for Minnesota Daycare Worker Over Child Abuse Allegations
A Maple Grove, Minnesota daycare worker accused of groping a 9-year-old girl is still at large, sparking a nationwide manhunt. š #News #MapleGroveMN #Minnesota #Crime
MAPLE GROVE, MN – A daycare worker in Minnesota is now the focus of a nationwide manhunt following disturbing allegations of sexual misconduct. Ryan Vaughan, 37, of Minnetonka, is wanted for criminal sexual conduct involving a nine-year-old girl under his care at Tutor Time daycare in Maple Grove.
Allegations and Police Investigation
Law enforcement began investigating on August 12 after receiving a report that a young girl had been touched inappropriately by a staff member. Officers met with the child’s parents, who reported a noticeable shift in their daughter’s behavior in recent weeks, including heightened anxiety.
After picking her up from daycare on the day of the report, the girl’s mother sensed something was wrong. When questioned, the child disclosed that Vaughan had repeatedly touched her thigh and buttocks. The girl said she had asked Vaughan to stop, but he ignored her and told her not to tell anyone.
On August 14, the child was interviewed at CornerHouse, a center specializing in child advocacy. During the interview, the girl confirmed that Vaughan had touched her multiple times over the course of a week.
Vaughan’s Prior Legal Issues
Vaughan has a history with the legal system. While most of his prior offenses are traffic-related, he was charged with fifth-degree domestic assault in Otter Tail County back in 2005.
That case was eventually resolved through a plea deal, with Vaughan pleading guilty to disorderly conduct. He served 90 days in jail and completed one year of probation.
Tutor Time’s Response and Compliance Record
Tutor Time daycare, located at 6340 Wedgwood Road North, terminated Vaughan’s employment after placing him on administrative leave once the allegations emerged.
According to the daycare, Vaughan had worked there since June 2024 and passed all required background checks before being hired. This included checks against state-maintained abuse registries.
Despite the compliance with hiring protocols, the daycare acknowledged the severity of the incident and confirmed full cooperation with law enforcement.
Facility’s History of Violations
Tutor Time’s Maple Grove location has been under scrutiny in the past. The Department of Human Services (DHS) has documented multiple corrective actions against the center since 2020.
A review in February 2024 uncovered more than a dozen violations, including failure to complete required background checks for some staff and inadequate supervision of children. Inspectors also noted cleanliness issues and staff being unaware of some children’s allergies. The daycare told local reporters that all violations have been corrected and approved by DHS.
Ongoing Search for Vaughan
Authorities filed charges against Vaughan on Thursday, but as of now, he remains at large. A nationwide warrant is in effect, and police urge anyone with information about Vaughan’s whereabouts to come forward.
This case highlights troubling gaps in daycare safety, leaving parents and the community anxious as the search for Vaughan continues.
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