A neonatal nurse in Virginia has been arrested and is facing serious charges after being accused of harming a premature baby in her care. Investigators believe there could be more victims involved in this heartbreaking case.
The nurse, 26-year-old Erin Elizabeth Ann Strotman, is charged with malicious wounding and felony child abuse. The alleged incident happened at Henrico Doctors’ Hospital in Richmond back in November. However, the investigation suggests that this might not be an isolated case. According to the hospital, three babies suffered “unexplained fractures” in November, and similar injuries were reported in four other babies during the summer of 2023.
Henrico County Police have been reviewing surveillance footage from the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) to uncover what really happened. Detectives have gone through countless hours of video and believe they have enough evidence to connect Strotman to the abuse. The investigation is still ongoing, with authorities determined to bring justice to every baby who may have been harmed.
Henrico Police Chief Eric D. English urged patience from families and the public as his team works through the evidence. He emphasized the importance of thoroughly investigating every piece of information.
Henrico Doctors’ Hospital has confirmed that Strotman is no longer an employee. In response to the shocking allegations, the hospital temporarily shut down its NICU to focus on the investigation and ensure patient safety. In a statement, the hospital expressed deep sadness and shock over the situation and pledged to continue supporting patients and staff who have been affected.
One of the families impacted by these events is the Hackey family. Their son, Noah, was born prematurely in August 2023, along with his twin brother Micah. At just two weeks old, Noah developed a discoloration in his left leg. X-rays revealed a fracture in his tibia. The Hackeys reported the injury to Child Protective Services, which determined an employee at the hospital was responsible, but they couldn’t pinpoint exactly who.
Dominique Hackey, Noah’s father, was devastated to learn there were other babies who may have been abused. He criticized the hospital for not taking stronger action sooner. “They failed on multiple levels with multiple families,” Hackey said. “If they were suspicious enough to let someone go, they shouldn’t have brought them back.”
Strotman was taken into custody on Thursday night and is now being held without bond at the Henrico County Jail. Her next court appearance is scheduled for March 24.
This case has left families heartbroken and a community shaken, as everyone waits for justice to be served and for more answers to come to light.