Virginia NICU Nurse Arrested for Allegedly Abusing Premature Babies

A nurse at a Virginia NICU is facing charges after an investigation revealed she allegedly abused a premature baby and potentially others. Erin Elizabeth Ann Strotman, 26, was charged with malicious wounding and felony child abuse following an incident at Henrico Doctors’ Hospital in Richmond in November.

Authorities discovered that three babies had suffered “unexplained fractures” in November, raising concerns that the abuse may have been more widespread. Investigators reviewed dozens of videos from the NICU and identified Strotman as the suspect. They are currently examining “hundreds of hours of footage” to ensure all affected children receive justice.

Henrico police Chief Eric D. English thanked the public for their patience as the investigation continues.

In addition to the November incidents, four other babies reportedly suffered similar injuries in the summer of 2023. One of them, Noah Hackey, was found to have a broken tibia. His father, Dominque Hackey, criticized the hospital for its role in the incident.

The hospital has since shut down its NICU while the investigation continues. They described Strotman as a “former employee” and expressed their shock and sorrow over the situation, while also praising the efforts of law enforcement in the investigation.