HENRICO COUNTY, Va. (Scripps News Richmond) — Erin Strotman, a 25-year-old nurse accused of abusing an infant in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Henrico Doctors’ Hospital, was granted a $25,000 secured bond on Wednesday during a hearing in Henrico County Court.
The judge set several conditions for Strotman’s release, including that she:
- Wear a GPS monitor
- Stay at her parents’ home
- Not work in healthcare
- Avoid contact with minors or vulnerable adults
- Refrain from using illegal drugs or any medications without a prescription
- Not contact the individual listed as her boyfriend on social media
- Not possess firearms at her home
The judge made this decision after Strotman underwent a mental health evaluation, though the results were sealed after being presented in court.
Henrico Commonwealth’s Attorney Shannon Taylor voiced concerns outside the courtroom, arguing against any bond. “The actions were egregious, and the strength of the case is strong. We believe no conditions can ensure safety for herself or others,” Taylor said. “However, the court has the final say, and we respect its decision.”
Strotman’s attorney expressed satisfaction with the judge’s decision, but some family members of infants who were allegedly harmed voiced their disappointment.
Dominique Hackey, whose son was injured at the NICU, shared his frustration: “I don’t understand why she’s allowed to be free when she’s done something so despicable. I don’t think Richmond is safer with her out on the streets,” Hackey said.
Although Strotman is not charged with injuring Hackey’s son, Hackey spoke on behalf of another family whose child’s injuries led to Strotman’s arrest. “We just want to protect our children,” Hackey said. “Nobody should feel safe with her out there.”
Hackey also revealed that while on paid administrative leave, Strotman contacted multiple families asking if she could care for their children. “It’s clear she has a compulsion,” Hackey added. “She doesn’t deserve to be out in the community.”
Strotman was placed on paid administrative leave in September 2023 following an internal investigation into fractures sustained by four infants in the NICU. Although Child Protective Services and Henrico Police conducted investigations, CPS found evidence of abuse but did not have enough proof to implicate Strotman.
The hospital reinstated Strotman in September 2024, but weeks later, three more infants suffered unexplained fractures. In November 2024, investigators caught Strotman on camera abusing one of the babies.
Strotman was arrested in January 2025, charged with malicious wounding and child abuse. She remained in jail until her bond was granted on February 12, 2025.
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