By Jacob Mathias

A Wisconsin Rapids woman faces child abuse charges after an alleged physical encounter with a 10-year-old child.

Jennifer Gammeter, 42, faces class I felony charges for child abuse, recklessly causing harm. If convicted she could face a maximum sentence of up to three years and six months imprisonment, or a $10,000 fine or both.

According to court documents, a Wisconsin Rapids Police officer was dispatched to a home on the 1500 block of 23rd Ave. S. on April 11 to investigate reports of alleged child abuse. Upon arrival, the officer spoke with the 10-year-old female victim who said her babysitter, Gammeter, had become upset with her on April 9 regarding some chores.

The victim and siblings alleged that Gammeter struck her three times on the buttocks and dragged her across the ground by her wrist. She then swung her into a chair where the victim said “Ow, You hurt me.”

The victim reported that Gammeter also jumped on her while she was lying in bed and tried to take a picture away. Police say the victim suffered redness and bruising on the buttocks and bruising on her wrist and shoulder.

Gammeter is free on a $1,000 signature bond which was issued at her initial appearance in Wood County Circuit Court on October 12.

She returns to court for a preliminary hearing and arraignment on November 6 at 1:30 PM.