Month: November 2025

WARNING: This article contains descriptions of domestic violence and/or child abuse. If you suspect child abuse or neglect, contact the DCFS 24/7 hotline: 855-323-3237. For more information, visit dcfs.utah.gov.

FILLMORE, Utah (ABC4) — An instructional assistant in the Millard School District has been arrested for striking an 8-year-old student, according to the Millard County Sheriff’s Office.

Melissa Diane Davis, 56, has been charged with abuse of a child with a disability, a third-degree felony.

Court documents report that Davis lost her job over the incident.

Growing childcare crisis in Utah impacts parents and teachers

According to law enforcement, on Oct. 28, a video was taken of Davis hitting an 8-year-old, non-verbal student with an open hand. Court documents state that the student was struck multiple times on the arm, torso, and possibly the head.

A witness to the situation reported that Davis told the student that if he hit her, she would hit him back. The video shows the student hitting Davis, and then Davis hitting the suspect back multiple times.

Court documents state that another witness said she had seen Davis strike the student multiple times prior to this incident.

Davis has been booked into the Millard County Jail on the aforementioned charges.

Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

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