Alleged daycare abuse cases sent to grand jury

RICHMOND, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) — Six of the nine individuals charged in connection to an ongoing child abuse investigation at A Step Ahead Childcare in Richmond appeared in court Wednesday for a preliminary hearing.

Amaris Hamilton, Theodrick Hersey, Jessica Houck, Brooklyn Houck, Khrystian Greer, and Elizabeth Thomas all had their cases waived to a Madison County grand jury.

Hamilton is facing a charge of wanton endangerment. The others, including daycare owners Hersey and Jessica Houck, are charged with various counts of criminal abuse. Investigators allege the owners attempted to conceal multiple abuse complaints within the facility.

Five of the suspects who appeared Wednesday are currently out on bond. Elizabeth Thomas remains in custody.

This case remains under investigation, and ABC 36 News Now will continue to follow developments.