Police: Day care worker in Renton accused of molesting at least 3 children



RENTON, Wash. -- A 21-year-old day care worker has been arrested for investigation of child molestation after a 4-year-old girl initially told authorities the Auburn man had touched her inappropriately, police said Friday.

Renton police detective Robert Onishi said there are now three alleged victims and that the investigation is continuing.

According to the police, the investigation began on June 10 when the director of The Orchards ChildCare  and Preschool at 850 Union Ave. NE in Renton received a call from a parent reporting allegations that the 21-year-old employee had stuck his tongue in the mouth of a child at the center. The employee was placed on administrative leave pending an investigation.

On June 13, a parent called the center and said he had learned that there had been some type of sexual abuse involving the same employee and a 4-year-old girl. A few days later, the child told investigators that the employee had put his hand in her underwear and molested her.

Two other alleged victims came forward during the course of the investigation, Onishi said, adding that anyone who thinks they may know of more victims should come forward.

On Wednesday, the employee, who Onishi said has no criminal record, was arrested and booked into the King County Jail for investigation of child molestation.

The suspect is not being identified, because he has not been formally charged yet.