A day care worker in Georgia has been accused of severely hurting a 1-year-old boy and was recently released on bail, causing public anger and threats aimed at the judge who allowed her release.

Yvette Thurston, 54, was freed on August 16 after posting a $44,000 bond. She faces three charges of first-degree child abuse and one count of first-degree aggravated battery.

The judge who approved the bail, Chief Magistrate Ann Marie Rose-Emmons, received death threats afterward. District Attorney Joe Mulholland spoke out in her defense, warning that anyone threatening judges will face prosecution.

Mulholland emphasized that while his office will work to protect children entrusted to caregivers, it will also protect judges carrying out their legal duties under Georgia law.

Thurston was arrested on August 11 after a 1-year-old named Clay Weeks was badly injured on his first day at Little Blessings Child Care in Bainbridge, Georgia, near the Florida border.

Clay’s father, U.S. Marine Cory Weeks, shared photos showing his son with a swollen black eye and multiple scratches. He initially was told another child caused the injuries, but surveillance video reportedly showed Thurston hitting the toddler.

Even though many are upset about Thurston’s release, Weeks asked the public to be patient and let the legal system carry out its work.

Clay is reportedly recovering well with ongoing medical care and support from his family. His 3-year-old brother, Wyatt, also attends the day care but was not hurt.

The Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning has ordered an emergency closure of the day care while the investigation continues.