Erin Elizabeth Strotman, a 26-year-old neonatal nurse from Chesterfield County, Virginia, faces serious charges of malicious wounding and felony child abuse. Authorities allege Strotman is connected to an incident in November 2024, where a hospitalized infant sustained unexplained fractures, Henrico County Police confirmed.
Strotman, who worked at Henrico Doctors’ Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), was arrested on January 2, 2025. The investigation spans multiple cases from 2023 and 2024, involving at least seven infants who reportedly suffered broken bones under NICU care. Detectives are examining “dozens of videos from inside the NICU” to uncover the full extent of the allegations.
Hospital and law enforcement react
Henrico Doctors’ Hospital stated: “We are both shocked and saddened by this development… We are focused on continuing to care for our patients and providing support to our colleagues deeply impacted by this investigation.” The hospital ceased admitting babies to the NICU last month until the situation is resolved.
Henrico Police Chief Eric D. praised investigators’ diligence, stating: “We appreciate the public’s patience as we thoroughly review all evidence… Our detectives and partnering agencies remain committed to seeking justice for affected families.”
Victims and families speak out
One family broke their anonymity to share their story. Dominique Hackey, the father of premature twin boys, revealed that one of his sons, Noah, suffered a fractured leg in September 2023. The injury prompted Hackey’s mother, a former NICU nurse, to report the incident to Child Protective Services. “It was a very confusing time,” Hackey told The Washington Post. “How am I supposed to feel when one nurse revives one baby, only for another to abuse the other?”
Court hearings revealed additional harrowing accounts, including a baby with 12 fractures. Families are grappling with anger, confusion, and trauma as they await justice.
Legal proceedings and potential penalties
Strotman, a registered nurse since 2019, had been placed on administrative leave in 2023 but was allowed to return to work in late 2024. Her employment was officially terminated following her arrest.
Henrico County Commonwealth’s Attorney Shannon Taylor confirmed Strotman’s charges. If convicted, she faces up to 20 years for malicious wounding and 10 years for felony child neglect. Additional charges remain possible as the investigation continues.
“The maximum statutory penalty for felony child neglect is 10 years of incarceration and the maximum statutory penalty for felony malicious wounding is 20 years of incarceration,” Taylor said.
Public call for information
Authorities have urged anyone with relevant information to contact Henrico Police Detective M. Lynch or submit tips anonymously via Crime Stoppers. This high-profile case underscores the vital need for vigilance and accountability in medical care settings.
