‘Supernanny’ family probed for child abuse
DELTONA (AP) – Authorities are investigating a possible child abuse case involving a Florida family featured on the reality television show “Supernanny,” the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office said.
Deputies and the state Department of Children & Families were alerted to the family by a citizen about a week after the Feb. 13 episode aired. The segment featured the Davis family of Deltona.
In the show, Phil Davis, the father, is seen repeatedly cursing at the family’s five children, ages 2 to 14. DCF said they are concerned about two instances in which he is shown slapping a young child in the face. It’s unclear if the complaint it based solely on what was shown on the program.
“It’s just not appropriate,” spokesman John Harrell said. “We want to confirm that this behavior is not continuing.”
Davis’ father said the children are healthy and well cared for.
“It’s all blown out of proportion,” Phil Davis Sr. said. “Those kids love him to death and he loves them to death.”