A terrified babysitter had to call police for help after the seven-year-old child she was caring for kicked her in the head and tried to strangle her Monday afternoon.

Victoria police rushed to an apartment complex in Vic West about 4 p.m. as the babysitter waited on a balcony with the door closed and the child inside the home.

A neighbour who has lived in the building for 12 years said the child is cared for by his grandmother, who uses a babysitter while she is at work.

“She is a great [grand]mother and he is a great kid,” said the neighbour, who did not want to give his name. “He’s gotten older and he gets a little rough off and on, but everyone makes mistakes. He’s a child.”

Victoria police spokesman Const. Mike Russell said the boy, who has been diagnosed with mental-health issues, was taken to hospital for an assessment. Russell said officers will be in contact with the child’s guardian.

He said he’s never heard of the police being called because of the child before.

B.C. Ambulance paramedics were called but did not transport the woman to hospital.

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