In a deeply unsettling case that has sent shockwaves through Richmond, Virginia, a nurse stands accused of harming the most vulnerable patients under her care.
Erin Strotman, a 26-year-old nurse at Henrico Doctors’ Hospital, faces serious charges of malicious wounding and felony child abuse after allegedly breaking the legs of seven newborns.
Allegations of Racial Targeting
Strotman has been accused by hospital staff of initially targeting Black babies.
According to reports, her actions raised suspicions in 2023 when four infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) suffered inexplicable fractures.
Following a year-long suspension, Strotman allegedly resumed her behavior, broadening her focus to other infants in what staff believe was an attempt to deflect attention.
A hospital worker told DailyMail.com, “Most of the babies were Black initially, but when she returned, she switched to a white baby and a girl baby, perhaps to confuse the pattern. It was deeply troubling.”
The Role of Monitoring Technology
The hospital’s decision to install “angel cameras” to monitor the NICU proved pivotal in identifying Strotman’s alleged actions.
Henrico County Police are now reviewing extensive footage from both 2023 and 2024, tying the incidents together in a broader investigation.
One nurse criticized the hospital’s handling of the case, saying, “Virginia is a right-to-work state.
There was no reason to allow someone suspected of harming babies to return to work.”
Families Left Devastated
Among the affected families are Dominique and Tori Hackey, who spoke out after learning their premature baby, Noah, had suffered a fractured leg in the NICU.
The couple expressed heartbreak over the abuse inflicted on their newborn, who was supposed to be in safe hands.
A Troubled Background
Colleagues and former classmates of Strotman describe her as “odd” and ill-suited for the high-pressure environment of a NICU.
Graduating in 2019 from an accelerated nursing program, she was reportedly the “weakest in the class,” raising questions about why she was chosen for a specialized role.
“She was always lurking in the background,” one former peer said.
“She never seemed passionate about working with babies, and her behavior always felt off.”
Questions About Motive
Speculation around Strotman’s motives has further darkened the case.
Some believe her actions may stem from personal frustrations, including a failed relationship where the man she pursued went on to have a child with someone else.
This theory, while unconfirmed, has left those who knew her searching for answers.
The Community Reacts
The case has drawn comparisons to British serial killer nurse Lucy Letby, though no deaths have been reported in Richmond.
The shocking revelations have left the local community and medical professionals reeling, with many questioning how such behavior could go undetected for so long.
Strotman Denied Bond
Strotman appeared in court recently and was denied bond.
She remains in custody and is set to return to court in March, as authorities continue to build their case.
Babies on the Mend
Amid the chaos, there is some relief: all the injured babies are reportedly recovering well after being transferred to other hospitals.
However, the scars left by this betrayal of trust will likely linger for the families and staff involved.
A Call for Accountability
This case underscores the importance of stringent monitoring and thorough background checks in healthcare settings.
As investigations continue, many hope this tragic situation will lead to systemic changes to prevent such horrors from happening again.