Department of Juvenile Justice Contractor Arrested on Domestic Violence Charges

Photo courtesy of Polk County Sheriff's OfficePhoto byPolk County Sheriffs Office

By Ciara Perez, News Reporter | iSkyCreations - News & Media (ISC)
Published March 16th, 2024

Davenport, FL – A Davenport woman associated with the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice through a contracting organization was arrested on charges of domestic violence. Ieshia Saunders, 41, employed by Bayskids, an organization that contracts with the Department of Juvenile Justice, faces charges following an incident early Friday morning, March 15, 2024.

Polk County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to Saunders' residence in response to reports of a family disturbance. Upon arrival and subsequent investigation, authorities determined that Saunders had engaged in a physical altercation with an adult family member, leading to her arrest and charges of Simple Battery (M1). Saunders, who holds the position of Lead Community Supervision Specialist at Bayskids, was taken to the Sheriff’s Processing Center following the incident.

The arrest has sparked a conversation about the expectations and behavioral standards for professionals working with children, particularly those in vulnerable situations.

Sheriff Grady Judd commented on the arrest, highlighting the gravity of the situation. “It’s troubling when someone in her position, who works with children, is accused of battery on her own family member. Professionals who work with children have a responsibility to maintain a high standard of behavior,” Judd stated.

The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice and Bayskids have yet to release a formal statement regarding Saunders' arrest and the implications it may have on her employment and the organization’s contract with the department. The incident underscores the importance of scrutinizing and ensuring the personal conduct of those in positions of influence and authority over minors.

As the legal process unfolds, the community and stakeholders await further details and the outcomes of any investigations into Saunders' conduct and its impact on her professional role. The case serves as a reminder of the critical responsibility those working with children bear in exemplifying and upholding ethical and legal standards, both in their professional and personal lives.

Photo byiSkyCreations - News & Media