Dr. Mark J. Matney
The owner of Blue Mountain Therapy self reports his on facility and two employees were charged. The abuse charges stem from assault and battery charges against the two employees. The investigation found that the assault occurred against 8 children all aged 4 years old. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office put out the following statement:
“The Washington County, VA Sheriff’s Office has concluded a month-long investigation into reported child abuse at a local childcare facility. The investigation began on March 12, 2025, following a report from the Washington County, VA Department of Social Services. This report was initiated by the facility owner, who self-reported allegations against employees.
A search warrant was obtained and executed on March 13, 2025, at approximately 6:00 AM, prior to the arrival of staff and children. Investigators remained on-site conducting their work throughout the day and into the evening hours.
The investigation included interviews with employees, parents, and child victims. Based on the totality of evidence, including an admission from one of the accused, detectives determined there was sufficient cause to pursue criminal charges. As a result, two employees, Ambrosia Kierre Monk and Rachel Puckett, were charged with Assault and Battery (Code of Virginia § 18.2-57). These charges stem from incidents that occurred between January 1, 2025, and March 12, 2025, and involve eight victims, all four years old.
The Sheriff’s Office worked in close coordination with the Washington County, VA Commonwealth Attorney’s Office and the Washington County, VA Department of Social Services throughout the investigation.
Ambrosia Kierre Rhoten-Monk, 30, of Bristol, VA, was charged with Assault & Battery, in violation of § 18.2-57 of the Code of Virginia. She was released on a $1,000.00 unsecured bond from the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail.
Rachel Rena Puckett, 25, of Saltville, VA, was charged with Assault & Battery, in violation of § 18.2-57 of the Code of Virginia. She was released on a $1,000.00 unsecured bond from the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail.”
The owner of the facility Clint Waddell put out the following statement on the issue.
“I can only face it head on and work to ensure we have the right people in the right places.”
