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SOUTHEAST TEXAS RECORD

Friday, March 29, 2024

Daycare settles $1M suit over toddler left in van unattended

Little Angel's Faith Development Center recently reached an undisclosed settlement with Sheryl Maxile, who originally sought $1 million in damages after from the daycare after an employee left her child unattended in a van when he went home to sleep.

Maxile filed a lawsuit on behalf of her daughter Hermini Collins on May 10 in Jefferson County District Court.

Court records show that a joint motion for dismissal was filed on Nov. 10, stating that Maxile had reached a tentative settlement with the daycare.

On Nov. 29 Judge Gary Sanderson, 6oth District Court, granted the motion, dismissing the claim without prejudice.

Neither the motion nor order states the settlement amount.

The suit states that on April 12 an unnamed Little Angel's employee was instructed to drive Collins to her school in Port Arthur. After dropping off two other passengers, the driver allegedly forgot about Collins in the van and returned to his residence to sleep.

Around two hours later, the 4 year old managed to unlock the van door, walk several blocks and cross a major highway before several onlookers discovered her, the suit states.

Little Angel's was faulted for negligently hiring the incompetent driver and falsely imprisoning Collins.

In her original petition, Maxile contended her daughter suffers from emotional distress and sought $1 million in damages.

Beaumont attorney Jonathan Stovall represents the plaintiffs.

Woodlands attorney Terry Fitzgerald represents the daycare.

Case No. B189-985

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