KAGAWA (TR) – The Kagawa Prefectural Government said on Thursday that it has taken disciplinary action against a 52-year-old female employee after she admitted to physically assaulting a teenager at a local child guidance center, reports Nippon News Network (Sep. 10).
The incident occurred in May at a child welfare facility in Takamatsu City. According to the prefectural government, the woman was verbally reprimanding a teenage visitor regarding their behavior when the situation escalated. The employee reportedly struck the child with an open hand, slapping them once on the head and once on the left thigh.
During an internal investigation, the employee fully admitted to the assault.
“While reprimanding the child, I ended up laying my hands on them,” the 52-year-old stated. “I am deeply sorry for causing distress and worry to the child and their guardians.”
Hase, director of the prefecture’s personnel division, addressed the scandal during a briefing, confirming the disciplinary action. Following the revelation, the employee was immediately removed from all duties requiring direct contact with children.
Despite the physical altercation, the Kagawa Prefectural Government has opted not to file criminal charges against the worker. Officials stated that because the victim’s family has not submitted a formal damage report to the police, the prefecture will hold off on taking legal action.
The prefecture has pledged to enforce stricter guidance and training for all staff members moving forward to prevent similar incidents.
