The child molestation allegations against a child day care center employee are disturbing.
They have been detailed in federal court documents in connection with charges of production and possessing child pornography.
But it appears Michael Pankey had no criminal past while working with children in four day care centers during 2016 before his arrest.
They are:
- Little Munchkins / Cribs 2 Crayons in Sterling Heights (Now under new owners)
- Gurukul Montessori Academy in Troy (1/2016 – 9/2016)
- Oakland University Lowrey Center Daycare – Oakland University Campus (9/2016 – 12-2016)
- North Hills Child Care Center – Troy (11/2016)
The feds spell out in court documents that Pankey had contact with a 5-year-old girl for three days back in December.
In April, she raised some issues, was interviewed and detailed several instances of molestation.
In May, Pankey’s home was searched and they found five DVDs with 800 images and 160 videos of child sexual abuse material. They also found pictures of the 5-year-old girl.
The Bharatiya Temple ran a day care center last year and the president says Pankey worked 10 hours a week for 8 months, but was always with another adult teacher.
The North Hills Child Care Center says Pankey worked only six days in November but won’t say why. He was also never alone with kids, working as an assistant caregiver.
Oakland University says Pankey was an intern while enrolled as a student at Macomb County Community College in early education.
All the centers have contacted parents to talk with their children to find out if there are any more victims.
