Man Accused of Child Abuse at Two Daycares | Grand Rapids News

A 20-year-old daycare worker in Kent County is facing a dramatic escalation in charges after prosecutors seek to add up to twelve new counts—including aggravated child sexual abuse, sodomy with an animal, and computer-related crimes—following disturbing evidence found on his devices. Already charged with nine felonies, Austin Hapner allegedly abused children while employed at two separate facilities, raising alarms about the safety of vulnerable kids. A key preliminary hearing is scheduled for October 15th, where prosecutors will present their case as this deeply troubling investigation continues to unfold. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Sources:https://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/2026/09/prosecutor-several-new-charges-to-be-added-against-alleged-daycare-abuser.html More coverage & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/27fa32039ef78dda Report issues to [email protected].