For parents, placing their newborn child in a hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) often means putting their trust in medical professionals during one of the most vulnerable seasons of their lives. NICUs are seen as places of care, safety, and healing for the most fragile infants. That’s why the recent reports of abuse inside the NICU at Henrico Doctors’ Hospital are particularly shocking and devastating. For families affected by these events, the betrayal of trust is profound.
At the Law Offices of Emroch & Kilduff, our hearts go out to the parents and families grappling with the unimaginable—the possibility that their precious newborns endured harm at the very place meant to protect them. We know how painful it is to think about what your child endured and to revisit those memories. But seeking justice isn’t just about holding responsible parties accountable; it’s also about ensuring your child has access to the resources and support they may need to recover.
If your baby was harmed during their time in the NICU at Henrico Doctors’ Hospital in 2023 or beyond, you don’t have to face this battle alone. Our Virginia medical malpractice lawyers are here to help guide you, fight for you, and advocate for the justice your family deserves.
Uncovering a Pattern of Negligence
The arrest of nurse Erin Strotman in December 2024 on charges of malicious wounding and child abuse has brought to light troubling revelations not only about her actions but also about systemic failures at Henrico Doctors’ Hospital. This wasn’t an isolated incident. Reports suggest a pattern of negligence that spans more than a year, involving multiple infant victims and ongoing harm despite initial warnings.
One of the most alarming aspects of this case is that the hospital conducted an internal investigation in 2023 after four infants in the NICU suffered “unexplained fractures.” Despite identifying Strotman as one of two staff members who had contact with all the affected babies, no definitive conclusions were reached, and she was placed on paid administrative leave. Tragically, she was later allowed to return to work.
Fast forward to late 2024, and three more babies were found with similar injuries. This raises an essential question for all parents affected by this tragedy—how could such harm persist, given the prior warning signs?
The hospital has stated it has since adopted safety measures, including installing cameras and conducting additional training, but for many families, these actions are too little, too late.
Navigating the Painful Road to Justice
If your child was harmed in the Henrico Doctors’ Hospital NICU, your feelings of grief and anger are valid. It’s natural to ask questions like, “Why did the hospital allow this to happen?” or “Couldn’t they have stopped this sooner?” While we may never fully understand every failure that led to this unimaginable harm, one thing is clear—justice must be pursued.
Medical malpractice cases like this aren’t merely about financial compensation. They’re about holding institutions accountable for their failures. They’re about making certain no other family endures what you’ve been through. By pursuing a claim, you’re not being vindictive. You’re being courageous and standing as an advocate for your child and others who might still be at risk.
A child’s injuries, however seemingly resolved, can have long-lasting effects—physically, emotionally, and financially. Your family may face medical expenses for specialized treatment, therapy, or ongoing care. Your little one may require interventions down the line as they grow. The financial support secured through a lawsuit can help ensure your child has access to every resource they need to thrive.
How Can a Medical Malpractice Lawsuit Help?
Medical malpractice cases focus on negligence. Specifically, in this case, the allegations against the hospital may include two key failures:
- Failing to act appropriately to protect vulnerable infants, even after prior reports of injury.
- Returning a nurse under suspicion of abuse to a role where she had direct care responsibilities for NICU infants.
When hospitals and medical professionals endanger the lives they’re sworn to protect, they must be held accountable under the law. A successful lawsuit can achieve the following:
- Provide for Your Child’s Future Needs – Recover damages to pay for medical treatments, therapies, and other resources your child may need.
- Hold Negligent Parties Accountable – Shine a light on systemic failures to ensure these mistakes are never repeated.
- Send a Message – By pursuing justice, you’re sending a clear message to other hospitals that negligence and abuse will not be tolerated.
Compassionate Advocacy from Trusted Legal Professionals
We understand that the thought of pursuing legal action may feel overwhelming, especially during an emotional time. That’s where we come in. At the Law Offices of Emroch & Kilduff, we have over 50 years of experience fighting for the rights of personal injury victims across Virginia.
When you partner with us, you’re not just hiring a legal team—you’re gaining a compassionate group of advocates who see your pain and understand your fight. We’ll handle every aspect of your case, from gathering evidence to working with medical and legal professionals to build a strong claim. Most importantly, we’ll stand by you every step of the way, keeping you informed and supported.
We know this is about more than money. This is about answers, about accountability, and about ensuring that your family has the resources needed to move forward.
Time Is of the Essence
It’s critical to act quickly. Virginia has specific statutes of limitations for medical malpractice claims, which means timing matters. The sooner we can review your case, the sooner we can begin the process of holding the responsible parties accountable.
We encourage you to reach out for a free and confidential case evaluation. Whether you’ve received a letter from Child Protective Services or you’ve recently learned about these incidents through the news, we can help you determine whether your family may be entitled to justice and compensation.
Discuss Your Case with the Trusted Medical Malpractice Lawyers at Emroch & Kilduff
To the parents reading this blog, we want you to know that you’re not alone. Your pain is valid. Your anger is justified. And your family’s fight for justice is worth it.
If you suspect your baby was harmed while in the care of Henrico Doctors’ Hospital’s NICU, please contact us. Contact us today at (804) 358-1568 or through our online form for a free and confidential consultation.
At the Law Offices of Emroch & Kilduff, we’re committed to standing beside families like yours during the most challenging times. You’ve been through so much already. Now, it’s time for the hospital to answer for its negligence and for your family to begin finding the justice you deserve.
Together, we can hold those responsible accountable and take steps toward healing.
