Pennsylvania nurse charged after alleged abuse of child with tracheostomy in Bensalem home
Bensalem, PA – A home healthcare nurse in Bucks County is facing criminal charges after authorities say she assaulted a medically fragile 3-year-old girl entrusted to her overnight care. The allegations stem from incidents captured on home surveillance video inside the child’s residence.
Cindy Desser, 58, has been charged with endangering the welfare of a child, according to the Bensalem Police Department. Investigators say Desser was working as an overnight nurse for the child at her family’s home on Locust Avenue when the alleged abuse occurred.
The case came to light in October after the child’s mother discovered bruising on her daughter’s inner thigh while changing her diaper. The child was taken to a hospital, where doctors determined the injury resembled a thumbprint, prompting further concern and review of in-home surveillance footage.
Surveillance video details alleged abuse
According to a probable cause affidavit, the footage showed Desser slapping the child multiple times and handling her in what investigators described as an aggressive manner, including throwing her around inside her crib. The child, who requires constant medical care, has a tracheostomy tube to assist with breathing.
Key Points
- Nurse Cindy Desser, 58, charged with child endangerment in Bensalem
- Alleged abuse of 3-year-old girl captured on home surveillance video
- Child requires 24-hour medical care, including use of a tracheostomy tube
Investigators allege that during one incident, the child removed her tracheostomy tube and Desser delayed reinserting it. The affidavit states she was seen “taking her time” before replacing the tube and told the child, “you did this,” while the girl was “gasping for air.”
Authorities also allege that Desser was observed sleeping while on duty, in violation of her responsibilities as a caregiver.
Employment and family response
Desser was employed by Dynamic Home Health Care at the time of the alleged incidents. Police noted that her actions were also in violation of company policies and ethical standards.
The child’s parents, who have not been publicly identified, told WPVI that they hired Desser based on her experience, which included approximately 20 years in nursing and prior care for a child with a similar medical condition.
The girl was born prematurely, weighing just 14 ounces, and requires continuous specialized medical support.
No additional charges have been announced. The investigation remains ongoing.
