Outline:
Background and Initial Investigations
An article detailing the actions of a former nurse at Henrico Doctors’ Hospital has raised serious concerns about the care provided to premature babies. The individual in question, Erin Strotman, was found guilty of abusing or neglecting nine premature infants while working in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Despite claims that she was not improperly trained, multiple investigations revealed alarming patterns of harm.
The case began when several babies within the NICU were found to have unexplained fractures. This led to a series of investigations into how these injuries could have occurred. In 2023, the hospital’s CEO and quality officer contacted local child protective services (CPS) regarding concerns for non-accidental trauma inside the NICU.
Key Incidents and Findings
During the initial investigation, four specific cases were identified:
- Baby Z.M., discovered on August 5, 2023, with a fracture to the left radius
- Baby T.M., discovered on August 16, 2023, with radial fracture, fracture of the ulna, right rib fracture, a distal femoral fracture, left radial fracture and bruising
- Baby M.L., discovered on August 16, 2023, with bruising a left radial bucket fracture
- Baby N.H., discovered on September 2, 2023, with a non-displaced fracture of the left tibia
Following these findings, the hospital removed Strotman from its schedule and placed her on paid leave for 11 months. The joint CPS and law enforcement investigation determined that the birth process did not cause the injuries to these babies.
Additional Investigations and Evidence
In 2024, another baby, Baby Y.H., was found to have injuries that included an impacted distal left femoral metaphyseal fracture, a right proximal tibia fracture, and possible rib fractures. The same concerns about non-accidental trauma were raised by Dr. Robin Foster, who led the Virginia Commonwealth University Child Protection Team.
As part of the investigation, video footage was presented during a plea hearing. These videos showed Strotman applying heavy pressure to babies’ legs and abdomens, squeezing them with excessive force, and moving them around carelessly. During the first video, a woman in the courtroom was seen sobbing and leaving the room.
Legal Proceedings and Convictions
Strotman entered a no-contest plea to all nine counts of child abuse during a two-hour plea hearing at the Henrico County Circuit Court on January 15. The judge found her guilty on all nine felony charges. She will remain out on bond until her sentencing, scheduled for June 5.
Despite her defense attorneys’ claims that there was no racial motivation behind her actions, the Commonwealth’s Attorney emphasized that Strotman was being held accountable for the actions involving all nine babies. The defense argued that Strotman had learned everything she needed while at the hospital, but the prosecution maintained that the evidence demonstrated a clear pattern of negligence.
Ongoing Concerns and Reactions
Families of the affected babies have spoken out, expressing their distress over the treatment their children received. One family member described Strotman as "evil" after witnessing her actions on camera. Meanwhile, Strotman claimed that she believed her actions were part of regular care, even though the videos showed otherwise.
The hospital implemented new measures, including installing video surveillance systems in each NICU patient room and providing additional training for all NICU employees. However, the incident has sparked ongoing discussions about the need for better oversight and accountability in neonatal care settings.