Starkville, Mississippi, church daycare provider charged with two counts of felony child abuse

A Starkville church daycare provider has been charged with two counts of felony child abuse, according to Starkville Police. Dianna Lynn Covin, 52, was released on $10,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in Starkville Municipal Court on July 2.

The alleged incidents occurred at the Creative Learning Center, the full-time daycare of First Baptist Church in Starkville. Covin, who had worked at the daycare for nine years, was placed on administrative leave on May 18 and fully dismissed from the staff on May 21. She has not returned to the premises since her termination.

Two separately filed affidavits allege that Covin administered the muscle relaxer Tizanidine to a seven-month-old boy and a five-month-old girl. The medication was reportedly given directly into the children’s mouths “for the express purpose of keeping (them) quiet.” One affidavit states that Covin intentionally withheld critical information about the child’s condition while the child was still receiving medical attention in the emergency room.

Tizanidine is used to relieve muscle spasms and increased muscle tone caused by conditions such as multiple sclerosis, stroke, or brain or spinal injury. It works by slowing action in the brain and nervous system to allow muscles to relax.

The Starkville Police Department confirmed the arrest in a news release issued Thursday, stating the investigation involves two children and that efforts are ongoing to determine if there are additional victims. The department did not confirm the arrest when contacted earlier in the week.

First Baptist Church released a statement through CLC Executive Director Karen Graham, expressing shock and sorrow over the breach of trust by a former employee. The church emphasized its commitment to the health and safety of its children and stated it is working with authorities in the ongoing investigation. Graham also mentioned she has been in contact with the families involved to provide updates and support.

Felony child abuse is defined under Mississippi Code Section 97-5-39, which outlines penalties that may include fines and imprisonment. The exact consequences will be determined through the legal process.

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