In a disturbing case of child abuse, two junior enlisted corpsmen took photos of themselves manhandling babies in a US hospital.
In one image, a junior enlisted corpsman gives a baby the finger with the caption, “How I currently feel about these mini-Satans.” Another junior enlisted corpsman holds up a newborn baby like a ragdoll and makes it “dance” in a separate video.
The two men shared the photos on Snapchat. But one quick-thinking user saved the incriminating documents and shared them on her Facebook page. Netizens shared the post over 200,000 times. The two men drew condemnation from the social media sphere before the post became unavailable.
Hospital issues statement on manhandling babies
It wasn’t long before Naval Hospital Jacksonville found the photos of their two staff members and issued a statement:
“We have identified the staff members involved. They have been removed from patient care and they will be handled by the legal system and military justice. We’ve notified the patient’s parents.”
American news site Action News Jax secured a video of the staff member who was making the newborn baby “dance.” The staff members’ immature acts and lack of professionalism earned the condemnation of social media users.
Investigation underway
Action News Jax obtained the hospital’s full statement:
“We are aware of the inappropriate video and photos and can confirm they are hospital corpsmen, not nurses, but we are unable to confirm their names or tenure in light of the ongoing investigation.”
“The individuals have been removed from patient care, meaning they will not be providing direct patient care. We are also contacting patients to address any questions or concerns they may have. This type of behavior is incompatible with the Navy’s core values of honor, courage and commitment, as well as medical ethics.”
“It also does not reflect the commitment Navy Medicine has to provide the best care our nation can offer to those who serve as well as their families. An investigation is underway. Once the investigation is complete, appropriate actions will be taken.”