Day care closes after worker charged with sexual abuse

ST. JOHNSBURY, Vt. (AP) — The Vermont home day care facility where a worker was charged with lewd and lascivious conduct with a child has closed.

The St. Johnsbury business closed after 77-year-old Thomas Claffey's arrest Sunday, and the Department of Children and Families says it is now investigating.

Court documents show the day care was licensed to his wife, 72-year-old Shelia Claffey. The department said Tuesday she has chosen to relinquish her license.

Authorities say Thomas Claffey helped run the day care and would occasionally supervise children. Police say he exposed himself to a 6-year-old girl at the facility twice in 2014.

Thomas Claffey pleaded not guilty on Monday.