A Gainesville woman who operated a home-based daycare in North Hall area and an employee have been arrested after two children under their care were found to have elevated levels of melatonin and Benadryl in in their bloodwork.
Stacie Fuller Young, 51, was taken into custody Monday at her residence on Odum Smallwood Road. Her daughter-in-law, Ptiery Verby-Sunshine Edge, 35, who worked at the daycare, also was arrested. Both were charged with four misdemeanor counts of reckless conduct.
The Hall County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) investigation began on Dec. 18 when a local pediatrician contacted an officer regarding legal advice. On Dec. 10, the doctor had conducted bloodwork on two children at the request of a parent who was concerned that the children were lethargic, irritable and slept more than usual.
The bloodwork determined both children had elevated levels of both melatonin and Benadryl in their bodies, with the Benadryl levels at what were described in the “high” range.
The children had attended Young’s daycare since November 2023. The reported change in
behavior began in last October. The investigation determined the youngsters had received daily doses
of each medication prior to naptime at the daycare.
HCSO investigators consider this investigation active. Anyone who has information that may be
pertinent to the case is asked to contact Investigator Mefferd at [email protected] or
770-533-7690.
Young and Edge each posted a bond of $5,200 on Monday evening.